Category: Machine Learning

MIL-OSI New Zealand: PM’s Science Council to set direction for science

Source: NZ Music Month takes to the streets

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has today announced the new Prime Minister’s Chief Science Advisor, and the members of the Prime Minister’s Science and Technology Advisory Council.

“We have world-class scientists in our universities and research institutes, but they’re working in a system held back by outdated settings. To unlock the full potential of science and technology, we need a sharper focus on commercialisation, better access to global investment, and clearer priorities at home,” Mr Luxon says.

“This Council is a new initiative to get clear, independent advice to ensure our investments in science and technology are delivering real outcomes for New Zealanders.

“The Council will provide advice on long-term priorities for government-funded science and innovation. They will help identify areas of focus that will have the greatest benefit for Kiwis and our economy.

“I also expect them to provide bold and courageous advice about those areas that aren’t delivering value for New Zealanders and may need to be deprioritised. It’s about making sure we are investing in what will have the greatest impact for New Zealanders.”

Members of the Council bring a strong mix of scientific, commercial and strategic expertise. They include:

Sir Peter Gluckman
Craig Piggott
Professor Merryn Tawhai
Komal Mistry-Mehta
Malcolm Johns
Dr John Roche

“I am also pleased to announce that Dr John Roche has been appointed as the Prime Minister’s Chief Science Advisor. In this role, John will support robust decision making by providing high quality, independent scientific advice. John, in his capacity as my science advisor, will also be a member of the council.”

Minister for Science, Innovation and Technology, Hon Dr Shane Reti, will chair the Council, with Dr John Roche as deputy chair.

“These are highly capable individuals who understand both the science and the economic imperatives. They are prepared to make the bold calls needed to ensure the system is future-focused, outcome-driven and aligned with our economic goals,” Mr Luxon says.

“A strong, well-directed science and innovation sector is critical to lifting productivity, creating high-value jobs and supporting a more resilient and competitive economy.”

The Council will provide its first formal advice to the Prime Minister and Minister Reti later this year.

Biographies of Council members:

Sir Peter Gluckman
Professor Sir Peter Gluckman ONZ KNZM FRSNZ FMedSci FRS trained as a paediatrician and biomedical scientist. He is Director of Koi Tu- Centre for Informed Futures and holds a Distinguished University Professorship at the University of Auckland. He is currently the chair of the Science System Advisory Group. Sir Peter is President of the International Science Council (ISC, 2021-2026). From 2014-2021 he was the inaugural Chair of the International Network of Government Science Advice (INGSA), and from 2009-2018 he was the first Chief Science Advisor to the Prime Minister of New Zealand. He was also Science Envoy for the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and coordinated the secretariat of the Small Advanced Economies Initiative. He has written and spoken extensively on science-policy and science-diplomacy and science-society interactions. He has received the highest scientific and civilian honours in New Zealand and numerous international scientific awards.
Craig Piggott
Craig Piggott is the founder of Halter. The company’s solar-powered collar for dairy and beef cows, pairs with an app for farmers and allows cows to respond to guidance cues, enabling virtual herding and fencing while monitoring health 24/7. This innovation helps farmers increase milk and protein production propelling the company to become one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing businesses with a thriving international customer base. Craig brings experience in innovation, agriculture and business.
Merryn Tawhai
Merryn Tawhai graduated from the University of Auckland with a PhD in Engineering Science in 2001. She leads a research programme at the Auckland Bioengineering Institute (ABI) in applied computational physiology of the respiratory system. Merryn is the Director of the ABI and sits on the Board of Directors for Cure Kids Ventures and the Virtual Physiological Human Institute. She was ABI’s Deputy Director for 10 years, Director of the Medical Technologies Centre of Research Excellence (MedTech CoRE), and an independent Director for Izon Science. Merryn was awarded the 2016 MacDiarmid Medal by the Royal Society of New Zealand (RSNZ) Te Apārangi, is a Fellow of the RSNZ, a Fellow of IAMBE and AIMBE, and an elected member of the Fleischner Society.
Komal Mistry-Mehta
Komal is Chief Innovation & Brand Officer at Fonterra and Managing Director of the Ki Tua Fund, Fonterra’s corporate venture capital arm. She leads global innovation, research and development, digital, brand and marketing functions for New Zealand’s largest company. Prior to joining the Fonterra Executive Team, Komal led Fonterra’s global health and nutrition business based in Singapore. With experience across Asia, the America’s and Europe, she has led major transformations in sales, innovation, digital enablement and technology. Komal was named New Zealand’s Young Executive of the Year in 2017 and serves on several international boards. Komal has completed the Executive Program at Stanford University School of Business and holds Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Management degrees from the University of Waikato. She is a Barrister and Solicitor of the High Court of New Zealand as well as a member of the New Zealand Institute of Chartered Accountants.
Malcolm Johns
Malcolm is the Chief Executive of Genesis Energy. Previously he was the Chief Executive of InterCity Group and held several governance roles within New Zealand’s transport, infrastructure and tourism sectors. He is Convenor of the Climate Leaders Coalition and served as Chair of the APEC Business Advisory Council leading the regional trade policy task force for climate change. Malcolm has extensive business acumen and understanding of Government systems

John Roche
John was appointed MPI’s Chief Science Adviser in June 2018 to provide an independent science perspective. He leads MPI’s Science Forum, chairs the Science Governance Group at MPI and the independent Mycoplasma bovis Strategic Science Advisory Group. John is also a member of the Prime Minister’s Chief Science Adviser’s forum and is an adjunct professor in University of Auckland’s School of Biological Sciences. John was previously DairyNZ’s Principal Scientist for Animal Science. He has held science appointments in Ireland and Australia. He is also Managing Director of Down to Earth Advice Ltd. Widely published and a regular contributor to international science and farming conferences, John has an Honours degree in Agricultural Science, a Masters in Farm Systems and Pasture Management, and a PhD in Animal Nutrition.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

May 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Poll: 86% of respondents rate China’s digital innovation highly

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

BEIJING, May 8 (Xinhua) — Eighty-six percent of respondents rated China’s achievements in digital technology highly, according to a report released Wednesday by the Renmin University of China (RUC) in Beijing.

The Global Digital Perceptions Report 2025, conducted by the university’s Global Opinion Research Centre, surveyed 7,599 participants from 38 countries using an international online sample.

The report covers five key areas, including improvements in daily life brought by digital technologies, expectations and concerns about artificial intelligence (AI), and the growing acceptance of China’s digital technologies in the Global South.

Regional analysis shows that the highest approval rates for Chinese digital technologies are in Africa at 94.3 percent, South America at 93 percent, Southeast Asia at 91.1 percent, South Asia and Central Asia at 90.7 percent, and the Middle East at 88.1 percent.

According to the report, more than half of respondents consider artificial intelligence and e-commerce to be the leading digital sectors in China. E-commerce platforms such as Temu and SHEIN are rapidly expanding globally due to their competitive prices and efficient supply chains.

Meanwhile, Chinese AI companies are making rapid progress with open and dynamic development strategies. In regions such as Africa, Chinese AI is increasingly seen as a driving force for intelligent infrastructure and digital governance.

“Chinese tech companies are widely known as leaders in digital innovation. Earlier this year, the DeepSeek R1 demonstrated high performance with minimal computing resources. Tencent’s Hunyuan and Alibaba’s Qwen large language models also ranked among the leaders in the tests. Meanwhile, Alipay and WeChat Pay continue to expand globally, providing users with convenient payment solutions,” said Zhang Di, a professor at NUS’s School of Journalism and Communication.

The report also noted that 83.6 percent of respondents from the Global South view Chinese digital technology as a positive force in their countries. Cooperation in technology, infrastructure, and talent development is strengthening, supporting both the internationalization of Chinese tech companies and digital growth in these countries.

Globally, attitudes toward innovation differ significantly between developing and developed countries: 74.2 percent of people in developing countries closely follow global technology trends, compared with only 50.5 percent in developed countries.

The survey found that 62.7 percent of respondents believe AI has a positive impact on work efficiency, while 64.9 percent see benefits in student learning. However, only 34.9 percent expressed optimism about AI’s impact on employment opportunities. -0-

MIL OSI Russia News –

May 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese checkpoints see surge in tourist flow over May Day holiday

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

BEIJING, May 8 (Xinhua) — Cities with border checkpoints in China saw a significant increase in the number of foreign tourists crossing the border during the International Labor Day holiday, largely due to the relaxation of visa policies and improved services at checkpoints, according to the National Immigration Administration.

From April 30 to May 3, foreign nationals passed through Beijing checkpoints 69,000 times, an increase of 52.1 percent year-on-year. The main purposes for entering the country were tourism, visiting relatives, and business trips.

On May 2, an international flight from Paris landed at Beijing Capital International Airport. When an elderly couple was confused while completing their paperwork at the passport control hall, immigration officer Cui Zhongqing helped them through border control by explaining the rules in French. Cui Zhongqing speaks several foreign languages.

At the main checkpoints of the Chinese capital, including the international airports of Beijing Capital and Daxing, highly qualified specialists like Cui Zhuqing provide more than 100 consultations per shift in foreign languages. Special corridors have been set up for the elderly, the sick, the disabled and pregnant women, and temporary entry permits and other procedures are processed through a “single window”.

“It’s now much easier to get a temporary entry permit. You don’t even have to stand in line again. It’s as fast as riding the metro,” a Russian tourist shared.

The southern Chinese city of Guangzhou recorded more than 154,000 entries and exits from May 1 to 3, up 23 percent year-on-year. “During peak hours, all 34 checkpoint windows were operating at full capacity to ensure travelers could pass through the inspection safely and efficiently,” said Lin Shunyue, an immigration officer at Baiyun Port.

With the opening of the third phase of the 137th China Import and Export Fair (Guangzhou or Canton Fair), it was a busy period at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport. At the arrivals hall, police officers worked with an AI-based consultation system to assist passengers at the designated corridor for exhibitors.

“After the second phase, we went to Hong Kong, and now we are back for the third. The visa-free regime makes this process very convenient,” the Polish businessman noted.

The immigration office at Chengdu Tianfu International Airport in southwest China’s Sichuan Province operated around the clock during the five-day holiday, allowing overseas arrivals to clear the immigration process immediately upon arrival.

Thanks to the visa-free entry policy, the Spanish tourist was able to fully enjoy the local attractions, see pandas and taste Sichuan cuisine. “The unique charm of the city, the developed air network and efficient passport control made the trip to Chengdu unforgettable for me,” she said.

According to the local border control department of Sichuan Province, as of May 3, 160,000 visa-free entries, more than 23,000 transit passengers taking advantage of the 24- or 240-hour visa-free stay rules, and more than 51,000 transit passengers passing through without border control have been registered through Chengdu checkpoints this year.

China’s National Immigration Administration reported on May 6 that foreign nationals entered China 1.12 million times during the holiday period, up 43.1 percent from a year earlier.

According to the above-mentioned department, it is especially noteworthy that over 380 thousand of these visits involved people entering China without a visa, which is 72.7 percent more than in the same period last year.

China currently provides one-way visa-free entry to citizens of 38 countries. In addition, the visa-free transit period for passport holders of 54 countries was extended to 240 hours in December 2024. -0-

MIL OSI Russia News –

May 8, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: Women’s sports are fighting an uphill battle against our social media algorithms

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Hans Westerbeek, Professor of International Sport Business, Head of Sport Business Insights Group, Victoria University

Women’s sport is more and more getting the attention it deserves.

Stadiums are filling, television ratings for many sports are climbing and athletes such as the Matildas’ Mary Fowler, triple Olympic gold medallist Jess Fox and star cricketer Ellyse Perry are becoming household names.

Despite this progress, an invisible threat looms, one that risks undoing years of advocacy and momentum.

That threat is the algorithm.

How sports consumption is changing

As more fans consume sport through digital platforms such as YouTube, TikTok, Instagram and increasingly, AI-curated streaming services such as WSC Sports, the content they see is being selected not by editors but by artificial intelligence (AI).

Algorithms, trained to maximise engagement and profits, are deciding what appears in your feed, which video auto-plays next, and which highlights are pushed to the top of your screen.

But here is the problem: algorithms prioritise content that is already popular.

That usually means men’s sport.

This creates what researchers call an echo chamber effect, where users are shown more of what they already engage with and less of what they don’t.

In sport, this can be deeply problematic.

If a user clicks on highlights from the AFL men’s competition for example, the algorithm will respond by serving up more men’s footy content.

Over time, content from women’s competitions risks being squeezed out, not because it is unworthy but because it has not yet achieved the same levels of engagement.

This is not a glitch, it is a structural flaw in how digital platforms are designed to serve content.

It means women’s sport, already underrepresented in traditional media, risks becoming all but invisible to many users in this AI-driven ecosystem.

Also, generative AI tools such as ChatGPT, Sora and others don’t just curate content, they now create it.

Match reports, fan commentary, video summaries and social posts are being generated by machines. But these systems are trained on historical data, which overwhelmingly favours men’s sport.

So, the more content the algorithm generates, the more it reproduces the same imbalance. What was once human bias is now being automated and scaled across millions of screens.

This may sound abstract, but it has real-world consequences.

Young fans raised on algorithmically curated content are less likely to see women’s sport unless they actively search for it. And if they don’t see it, they don’t form emotional attachments to it.

That has major implications for ticket sales, merchandise, viewership and sponsorship investment.

An uphill battle

In short, visibility drives viability. If women’s sport becomes digitally invisible, it risks becoming financially unsustainable.

A 2024 study in Victoria shows only around 15% of traditional sports media coverage in the state goes to women’s sport. This mirrors a 2019 European Union study across 22 countries, which found 85% of print media coverage is dedicated to male athletes.

And while progress has been made, particularly during events such as the FIFA Women’s World Cup or the Olympics, regular, everyday visibility remains an uphill battle.

AI threatens to compound these historic disparities. A 2024 study found algorithms trained on historical data reproduce and even amplify gender bias.

The very systems that could democratise access to sport content may, in fact, be reinforcing old inequalities.

What can be done?

We can’t turn off the algorithm. But we can hold it to account.

Platforms like YouTube, TikTok and Netflix should be required to undergo independent algorithmic audits.

These would evaluate whether content recommendation engines are systemically under-representing women’s sport and propose changes.

In Europe, the Artificial Intelligence Act, one of the world’s first comprehensive AI regulations, requires transparency and oversight for high-risk AI applications. Australia and other countries should consider similar obligations for content platforms.

Sport organisations and broadcasters need to create intentional pathways for fans to discover women’s sport, even if they haven’t previously engaged with it.

That means curated playlists, featured stories and digital campaigns that surface content outside the fan’s usual algorithmic bubble.

Platforms must balance personalisation with diversity.

We also need better media literacy, especially for younger audiences. Fans should be encouraged to explore beyond what’s served to them, seek out women’s sport channels, and recognise when the algorithm is reinforcing narrow viewing habits.

Teaching this in schools, sport clubs and community programs could make a big difference.

An opportunity for Australia

Australia is well placed to lead this change because our women’s national teams are globally competitive, our domestic leagues are growing and fan appetite is rising.

But without visibility, this momentum can fade. We must remember that algorithms don’t just reflect our preferences, they shape them.

In an age where AI can dictate what we see, the battle for attention becomes even more crucial.

If we want women’s sport to thrive every week, we need to ensure it is seen, heard and valued in the digital spaces where fandom now lives.

Because in the age of AI, what we don’t see may be just as powerful as what we do.

Hans Westerbeek 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. Women’s sports are fighting an uphill battle against our social media algorithms – https://theconversation.com/womens-sports-are-fighting-an-uphill-battle-against-our-social-media-algorithms-255001

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

May 8, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Chinese ice hockey veteran defies age to reach career peak

Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

At 36, most athletes are winding down their careers. But Yu Baiwei, captain of China’s women’s ice hockey team, is unfazed by this notion.

“If anyone doubts my fitness, just watch me when I hit the ice,” she said.

As the only team member born in the 1980s, Yu has been a competitive fixture for 20 years.

She made her national team debut at 17 and played in the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics, where China placed seventh, and led the squad to a ninth-place finish on home ice at Beijing 2022.

Yu Baiwei (R) of China vies with Klara Hymlarova of the Czech Republic during the women’s ice hockey preliminary round Group B match between China and the Czech Republic at Wukesong Sports Center in Beijing, China, Feb. 3, 2022. (Xinhua/Wang Fei)

At the 2025 IIHF Women’s World Championship Division I Group A, held in the southern Chinese city of Shenzhen in April, the veteran was named China’s best player.

LATE CAREER PEAK

“Most people think my prime was in my twenties,” Yu reflected. “Actually, I think that I have been getting stronger and more skilled since 29.”

The secret is self-discipline. Since then, Yu has barely taken a real off-season break. Back home in Harbin, she trained with male players to sharpen her skills and address her weaknesses, and also put in extra hours at the gym.

“I know the older I get, the harder I will bounce back from fatigue. That’s why I can’t afford to fall behind,” she explained.

19-year-old goalkeeper Zhan Jiahui called Yu a role model. “She trains through discomfort, targets her weaknesses, and stays in peak condition. She’s the oldest on the team, but still one of the best. She’s inspired me so much.”

“My mentality is wired for high-intensity competition,” said Yu. “When I set a goal, I give it 120 percent. I just want to see how far I can go.

“Don’t let the age define what you can achieve. If you have a dream, go for it. It’s never too late.”

PLAYING THROUGH PAIN

Yu has rarely been injury-free throughout her career. Chronic shoulder dislocations, a torn ligament in her left knee, and ankle damage are just a few entries on her long injury list.

“It’s uncomfortable,” she admitted, “but I’ve learned to live with it.”

Ahead of Beijing 2022, she tore her left anterior cruciate ligament, a career-threatening injury. But Yu denied doctors’ recommendation for surgery. Instead, she strapped on a knee brace, trained the surrounding muscles, and went back on the ice.

She hasn’t taken the brace off since.

Time and again, she’s chosen rehab over surgery, putting her national team duties above anything else. “Some people joke that I’m a medical miracle,” she laughed.

In February’s 2026 Winter Olympic qualifiers, with a shoulder injury limiting the use of her shooting arm, Yu managed to score against hosts Japan. The goal lifted her team’s morale in a tough match.

“Pain wears you down,” she admitted. “But once you’ve pushed through it, life becomes more fun.”

A LEGACY BEYOND ICE

“Each stage of my career has brought new responsibilities,” Yu said. “I’m lucky to have spent 20 years with this team, including two Olympics, it’s a complete career.”

Yet one goal remains for Yu: leading China back into the world’s top eight. “Wearing the national jersey isn’t just about pride – it’s a responsibility. That belief is in my bones. And I want to pass it on.”

As a player and assistant coach, Yu is helping build the team’s future. China is currently going through a transitional period, with a new generation of players rising and veterans like Kong Minghui and Zhao Qinan holding the line.

For Yu, the path ahead is clear. “Whether I’m a player, a coach, or in any other role, I’ll keep contributing to Chinese hockey,” she said. “This sport has shaped my life. I want to help our team stand firm in the world.”

MIL OSI China News –

May 8, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Young Chinese inventor among top 10 innovators for 2025 EPO prize

Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

A young Chinese inventor and her collaboration partner have been named among the top 10 innovators of the Young Inventors Prize 2025, standing out from more than 450 candidates, the European Patent Office (EPO) announced on Tuesday.

Chinese inventor Wen Roujia and Alisha Fredriksson co-founded a startup to develop a retrofittable carbon capture system to help shipowners cut emissions without needing to replace their fleets.

“We bind the CO2 in solid form using calcium-based materials, making storage as simple as carrying cargo. No specialized equipment, no extreme conditions, just a stable, scalable way to reduce emissions at sea,” explained Wen.

Aimed at individuals aged 30 and under, the EPO said that the Young Inventors Prize showcases the transformative power of youth-driven solutions and recognizes the remarkable young people paving the way to a more sustainable future.

According to the EPO, the top 10 innovators for this year’s prize span five continents. They contribute to multiple United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and provide solutions in areas such as e-waste, rare earth element recovery, aviation, artificial intelligence, nanotechnology, carbon capture, food security, and environmental protection.

MIL OSI China News –

May 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – MEPs call for bolder EU action on water resilience

Source: European Parliament

Parliament adopted its recommendations for the European Water Resilience Strategy, expected from the Commission before summer 2025.

In their report, adopted with 470 votes in favour, 81 against and 92 abstentions, MEPs want an ambitious strategy for the EU to manage its water resources more efficiently and respond better to current water-related challenges. The text says water is not only essential to people’s lives and health, but also central to Europe’s economy, competitiveness, and climate adaptation efforts.

Water efficiency targets, reducing pollution and improving disaster preparedness

MEPs want the Commission to propose sectoral targets for water efficiency and water abstraction (taking water from a surface or underground source) based on risk assessments.

The EU needs to do more to reduce water pollution from pharmaceuticals, chemical pesticides and fertilisers, antibiotic-resistant bacteria, microplastics and chemicals, and to phase out so-called “forever chemicals” (PFAS).

Parliament wants climate adaptation to be integrated into sectoral plans and policy measures affecting water and land use, as well as tailored measures for regions facing unique challenges, such as the Mediterranean, island areas and outermost regions. Preparedness and crisis response mechanisms for water scarcity, drought and floods must be significantly improved, they add.

Dedicated funding and digital innovation

Additionally, MEPs are asking the Commission to make dedicated funding available for water resilience, supported by specific mechanisms within existing funds, to modernise water infrastructure, sustainable water management, nature-based solutions and innovative water-efficient technologies.

They urge the Commission to invest in artificial intelligence (AI) solutions, real-time leak detection, smart irrigation, and emerging technologies that improve water efficiency. They also stress the importance of digital tools for transparent data collection, monitoring and early warning systems, as well as improving cybersecurity of critical water infrastructures.

Quote

Rapporteur Thomas Bajada (S&D, MT) said: “Our people – our families, farmers, and businesses – deserve clean, secure, and affordable water. That means moving from promises to real, binding action. We cannot afford to treat water as infinite. That is why this report calls for enforceable water efficiency and abstraction targets – sector by sector, basin by basin. We call for a strong EU-wide response to pollution, including the full phase-out of PFAS wherever safe alternatives exist. Because these “forever chemicals” have no place in a sustainable future. We must also invest in solutions that work: modern irrigation, smart recycling systems, real-time monitoring, and infrastructure that prevents leaks before they happen. These are not luxuries – they are the tools we need to protect our health, our food systems, and our future.”

Next steps

The Commission is expected to adopt the European Water Resilience Strategy before the summer, according to its 2025 work programme.

Background

Pollution, habitat degradation, impacts of climate change, and the over-use of freshwater resources are putting pressure on Europe’s lakes, rivers, coastal waters and groundwaters, with water stress affecting 20% of Europe’s territory and 30% of the population every year. Only 39,5% of Europe’s surface water bodies achieved good ecological status and only 26.8% achieved ‘good’ chemical status under the implementation of EU’s water legislation.

MIL OSI Europe News –

May 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: BH 25-2: 18th CES ensures readiness through rapid response and inspection

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

KADENA AIR BASE, Japan – An Explosive Ordnance Disposal team assigned to the 18th Civil Engineer Squadron conducted a massive mechanical clearance to a post attack scenario in support of a routine readiness exercise at Kadena Air Base, Japan, May 7, 2025.

MIL Security OSI –

May 8, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: WRRC Webinar: Enhancing National Systems for Assessing Loss and Damage
Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

This webinar, a precursor to the World Resilient Recovery Conference (WRRC), aims to explore these critical practical and policy challenges in post-disaster loss and damage assessments while highlighting emerging solutions that can ensure that countries are better prepared to assess, quantify, and respond to disaster-induced losses in an increasingly risk-prone world.

This webinar is jointly organized by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), the Government of India and the Gorvernment of the Philippines.

Background

In recent decades, natural hazards—including climate-induced disasters—have become increasingly frequent and severe, causing immense human and economic devastation and significantly hindering sustainable development. In 2023 alone, 399 disasters claimed over 86,000 lives, affected 93.1 million people, and caused economic losses of approximately USD 202.7 billion.

These alarming figures underscore the urgent necessity for robust, accurate, and timely loss and damage assessment mechanisms to facilitate effective recovery and secure timely financial support. The varied nature of risks faced by countries also underscores the importance of a whole-of-society, multi-hazard risk approach that bridges disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation and accounts for non-economic losses.

However, several systemic barriers impede countries’ ability to conduct comprehensive loss and damage assessments. Methodological inconsistencies and lack of international standardization frequently lead to conflicting loss estimates. Data gaps and insufficient baseline information further complicate accurate loss evaluations. Limited technical capacities and fragmented institutional coordination exacerbate delays. Additionally, significant challenges remain in quantifying non-economic losses.

At the same time, emerging technologies and innovative policy approaches present promising solutions. Advanced geospatial technologies, including satellite imagery, drones, and AI-based analytics, have rapidly enhanced assessment capabilities. The establishment of the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage (FRLD) at COP28 provides a significant opportunity for developing countries. International initiatives such as the Santiago Network or the International Recovery Platform (IRP) are also playing a critical role in strengthening national capacities.

Session objectives
1. Diagnose current bottlenecks: Pinpoint the methodological, institutional and data-related challenges that delay or distort post-disaster loss-and-damage assessments.
2. Exchange practical lessons: Share concrete experiences from recent disasters—what worked, what did not—and distil transferrable practices.
3. Showcase emerging solutions that can close critical assessment gaps.
4. Highlight linkages to regional and global mechanisms of support for countries.
5. Suggest priority actions that integrate solutions, build technical capacity and institutionalise assessments.
Speakers
- Mr. S K Jindal, Additional Secretary, Disaster Management Division, Ministry of Home Affairs, India
- Ms. Noralene M. Uy, Assistant Secretary for Policy, Planning and Foreign-Assisted and Special Projects, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Government of the Philippines
MIL OSI United Nations News –
May 8, 2025
MIL-OSI: BadCreditLoans Reviewed: The Top Low Credit Lending Option for Payday Loans
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Tacoma, May 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

In This Article, You’ll Discover:
- How BadCreditLoans.com connects borrowers with payday loans for bad credit using a secure online application system
- The most common financial pain points faced by low credit borrowers and why traditional lenders often deny them
- What makes BadCreditLoans a top-rated low credit lending option for emergency loans and same-day funding
- A detailed breakdown of how the platform works — from eligibility checks to AI-powered loan matching and lender approval
- Transparent insight into loan terms, interest rates (APR), repayment options, and application timelines
- Real customer experiences and reviews highlighting ease of use, trustworthiness, and lender access
- How Bad Credit Loans compares to other payday loan providers in the online lending space
- Common concerns such as loan security, legitimacy, and data protection — with risk mitigation advice
- Full pricing details, customer service contact information, and what to expect from the lending process in 2025
- Important disclaimers regarding loan variability, APR, and pricing changes, with reminders to consult the official website
TL;DR Summary:

BadCreditLoans.com has emerged as a leading online solution for consumers searching for payday loans for bad credit and emergency funding with low credit scores. This comprehensive review explores how the platform works, who qualifies, and why it’s one of the top low credit lending options in 2025. From loan matching powered by fintech to flexible repayment terms and secure applications, BadCreditLoans connects borrowers to an expansive network of lenders without requiring perfect credit.

Whether you’re looking for same-day funding, no credit check loans, or simply want to explore fast online payday loan options, this article outlines every key detail, including eligibility requirements, pricing, and borrower protections. Customer reviews and competitive comparisons are included to help you make an informed decision.

Disclaimer: Loan offers, terms, and interest rates may vary by lender. Always confirm final pricing and conditions on the official website, as they are subject to change without notice.

Introduction

Bad Credit Loans: A Trusted Lifeline for Low-Credit Borrowers

In today’s economic climate, more individuals than ever are struggling with limited credit access. Whether it’s due to past financial hardships, job loss, or emergency expenses, the reality is that a large segment of the population finds themselves turned away by traditional lenders. That’s where platforms like BadCreditLoans.com come in — a digital service built to help consumers with poor or no credit history connect with potential lenders for payday loans and other urgent cash needs.

This review is designed for those facing financial uncertainty and wondering:

Where can I turn when my credit score is low, and bills can’t wait?

Understanding the Financial Struggles of Bad Credit Borrowers

Why Borrowers with Bad Credit Face Unique Financial Barriers

For millions of Americans, financial emergencies don’t wait for a perfect credit score. A single late payment, job loss, medical bill, or sudden expense can significantly lower your credit score, placing you in a category traditional banks often avoid: subprime or low-credit borrowers.

Traditional lenders typically rely on strict credit scoring models that penalize individuals for missed payments, high credit utilization, or limited credit history. As a result, consumers in need of urgent financial relief, often searching for payday loans for bad credit or emergency loans with bad credit, are denied at the moment they need help most.

Common Pain Points for Low-Credit Borrowers

Low-credit borrowers frequently experience a frustrating loop:
- Loan denial from traditional banks or credit unions, even for small amounts under $1,000
- Predatory lenders charge extremely high APRs, trapping borrowers in cycles of debt
- Stigma around credit score requirements, which prevents access to fair options
- Limited access to short-term funding during medical, housing, or automotive emergencies
This creates a financial bottleneck, where options become increasingly scarce, even as the need grows more urgent.

Who’s Affected by These Barriers?

The challenge of accessing affordable lending doesn’t only impact those with mismanaged finances. Many borrowers seeking low credit score loans are:
- Gig workers or freelancers with inconsistent income
- Students or recent graduates with little to no credit history
- Individuals recovering from past financial hardships, such as divorce or bankruptcy
- Seniors on fixed incomes who’ve fallen behind on bills
- Households impacted by inflation or economic downturns
This diverse group — often labeled “credit invisibles”—may not have extensive borrowing histories, but they do have legitimate, time-sensitive financial needs.

When Traditional Credit Fails

When banks say “no,” borrowers are often left with two choices:
1. Delay essential expenses, risking utilities shut offs or eviction
2. Turn to risky payday lenders or unregulated financial services
This is where BadCreditLoans.com stands out. The platform acts as a secure bridge between borrowers and vetted lenders, offering a mobile-first lending experience designed to provide fast approvals, even for those with poor credit histories.

Disclaimer: Loan approval through BadCreditLoans is not guaranteed. Lending decisions are made solely by third-party lenders, and terms will vary. Always review individual lender terms before accepting an offer.

Why a Better Option Is Needed in 2025

With rising costs of living, stagnant wages, and increased reliance on alternative income sources, more consumers are seeking online payday loans and same-day funding options. Unfortunately, the market is also seeing a rise in fraudulent or misleading financial offers.

Borrowers today demand:
- Transparent terms with no hidden fees
- Access to no-credit-check loans or soft credit inquiries
- Fast decisions and responsive customer support
- Financial inclusion and flexible repayment plans
BadCreditLoans.com addresses these concerns by offering a fintech lending platform that uses AI-powered loan matching, giving low-credit borrowers a safer and smarter alternative.

Don’t wait! Apply now on BadCreditLoans.com and get matched with lenders offering up to $10,000—even with bad credit. Fast, secure, and 100% free!

Introducing BadCreditLoans.com: A Beacon for Low-Credit Borrowers

What Is BadCreditLoans.com?

BadCreditLoans.com is not a direct lender — it’s an online loan aggregator platform that connects individuals with low credit scores to a wide network of potential lenders. The company has operated since 1998 and has established itself as a trusted digital lending gateway for consumers searching for payday loans for bad credit, emergency loans, and no credit check loan options.

Rather than applying individually to multiple lenders — which can trigger repeated hard inquiries and further damage your credit — BadCreditLoans uses a single, secure online application to match you with lenders willing to work with borrowers in your credit range.

A Fintech-Driven Solution to Modern Lending Needs

The platform has adapted to meet the changing landscape of digital finance. Using AI-powered loan matching technology, BadCreditLoans analyzes borrower profiles in real time to pair users with lenders that align with their needs — offeringfast approval loans and same-day funding when available.

This mobile-first lending experience ensures borrowers can apply and receive results conveniently from their smartphone, tablet, or desktop — 24/7.

What Makes BadCreditLoans Different?

Here’s what separates BadCreditLoans from other platforms in the subprime lending space:
- Broad Network Access: The platform connects borrowers with dozens of reputable lenders, offering a variety of loan products, including personal loans, installment loans, and payday loans.
- Soft Credit Checks Only: Your credit score will not be affected by the initial application. Many lenders rely on alternative credit scoring or income verification rather than traditional FICO scores.
- No Fees to Use the Service: BadCreditLoans.com does not charge users for applying or for loan matching.
- Flexible Loan Options: Loan amounts typically range from $500 to $10,000, with repayment terms from 3 to 60 months, depending on the lender.
Disclaimer: BadCreditLoans.com is not a lender. All loan decisions, APRs, repayment terms, and eligibility criteria are determined by individual lenders. Always review any loan agreement carefully before accepting.

A Secure Online Application You Can Trust

In a digital age filled with scams and unreliable lenders, BadCreditLoans takes security seriously. The platform uses advanced encryption protocols to protect personal and financial information during the application process.

Borrowers can submit applications confidently, knowing their data is safeguarded and shared only with potential lending partners within the BadCreditLoans network.

Who Can Benefit Most?

BadCreditLoans is ideal for:
- Borrowers with poor or limited credit history
- Individuals seeking short-term emergency funding
- Applicants looking for no-credit-check payday loans
- Consumers who want fast, hassle-free loan comparisons
In short, if you’re searching for the best loans for bad credit in 2025, BadCreditLoans provides a streamlined, secure path forward — one built for convenience, transparency, and flexibility.

Bills piling up? Get the funds you need today. Apply at BadCreditLoans.com for quick approval—even with bad credit or no credit. Start now!

How BadCreditLoans.com Works: A Step-by-Step Guide

Navigating the Application Process with Ease

BadCreditLoans.com simplifies what is traditionally a stressful and time-consuming process. By offering a digital loan onboarding experience designed specifically for low-credit borrowers, the platform removes unnecessary friction and helps applicants connect with lenders in minutes.

Let’s walk through the entire process — from application to funding.

Step 1 — Submit the Online Application

The first step is filling out a secure, no-cost online form directly on BadCreditLoans.com. This includes:
- Full legal name, address, and contact information
- Employment and income details
- Bank account information (for direct deposit of funds)
- Social Security number (used to conduct a soft credit inquiry)
Unlike traditional banks, this initial application will not harm your credit score. It is designed for borrowers searching for no-credit-check loans or those with low credit scores who need quick funding options.

Step 2 — Receive Loan Offers from Potential Lenders

After submitting the application, BadCreditLoans uses AI-powered loan matching to compare your information with its network of partner lenders.

You may receive multiple offers with varying:
- Loan amounts (typically $500 to $10,000)
- Repayment terms (3 months to 60 months)
- Annual Percentage Rates (APR)
- Fee structures (origination fees, if applicable)
Each lender has its own criteria, but most are open to working with credit invisibles, freelancers, gig workers, and others who may have difficulty qualifying through conventional channels.

Disclaimer: Loan availability, rates, and approval outcomes vary by lender and applicant profile. Always review each lender’s terms before proceeding.

Step 3 — Review, Accept, or Decline Offers

One of the platform’s most empowering features is transparency. There is no obligation to accept any offer. You’re free to:
- Compare multiple offers
- Read loan documents carefully
- Ask questions directly to the lender
- Decline an offer if the terms aren’t right
BadCreditLoans encourages users to borrow responsibly — a key differentiator from many predatory payday lenders that pressure borrowers into accepting high-APR loans.

Step 4 — Receive Your Funds

Upon accepting a loan offer and completing any additional verification steps (such as confirming employment or banking details), many lenders offer:
- Same-day or next-business-day funding
- Direct deposit into your checking account
This is especially valuable for users facing financial emergencies — such as medical bills, utility cutoffs, or urgent home repairs — who need fast approval loans.

Step 5 — Repayment and Support

Loan repayment is handled directly between the borrower and the selected lender. Repayment terms are set in advance and may include:
- Fixed monthly payments
- Automatic withdrawals from your bank account
- Prepayment options, often without penalties
Be sure to confirm:
- Exact APR and total repayment cost
- Payment dates and amounts
- Late fees or grace periods
Disclaimer: Always read the full loan agreement. Not all lenders allow early repayment without penalty. Terms and conditions vary.

Why This System Works for Low-Credit Borrowers

This step-by-step process is designed to provide structure and peace of mind for individuals who typically feel shut out of the lending system. With a mobile-first lending interface, transparent offers, and no upfront fees, BadCreditLoans.com is built to support financial inclusion, not exploitation.

For users searching for online payday loans, bad credit personal loans, or emergency loans without a credit check, the platform offers a fast, secure, and user-friendly alternative in 2025’s evolving lending market.

Get same-day payday loans with no upfront fees! BadCreditLoans.com connects you to lenders fast—even if your credit isn’t perfect. Apply now!

Eligibility Criteria and Requirements

Understanding who qualifies for a loan through BadCreditLoans.com is essential. The platform is designed to serve individuals who have historically been underserved by traditional financial institutions, including those with bad credit, limited credit history, or unconventional income sources.

This section outlines the basic qualifications you’ll need to meet, as well as the inclusive approach BadCreditLoans takes in helping more people gain access to emergency funds.

Who Can Apply?

To be eligible for a loan offer through BadCreditLoans, you must meet the following minimum requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old and a legal resident of the United States
- Possess a valid checking account in your name
- Have a steady source of income (employment, self-employment, benefits, etc.)
- Provide a working phone number and email address
These requirements are intentionally flexible to ensure that individuals in varying financial circumstances — including part-time workers, freelancers, and those recovering from financial setbacks — have an opportunity to apply.

Credit History Requirements

One of the most appealing features of BadCreditLoans is its accessibility to individuals with low or no credit scores. Many of the lenders in the network accept applicants who:
- Have a poor FICO score or no FICO score at all
- Have past bankruptcies, delinquencies, or charge-offs
- They are labeled as credit invisibles due to a minimal borrowing history
The use of soft credit inquiries ensures that submitting an application will not negatively affect your credit score, a crucial feature for those already navigating credit challenges.

Alternative Approval Metrics

Unlike traditional banks, many lenders connected through BadCreditLoans look at a broader picture when evaluating your application. They may consider:
- Employment stability
- Monthly income vs. existing obligations
- Bank account activity
- Alternative credit scoring methods (such as rent, utility, or phone bill payments)
This inclusive underwriting process helps more people qualify for essential funding, even without a strong credit history. It aligns with emerging trends in fintech that prioritize real-time income verification and cash flow-based decision-making over legacy credit models.

Designed for Financial Inclusion

BadCreditLoans supports financial inclusion by helping underserved populations access transparent, regulated lending solutions, not high-interest payday traps. It fills a crucial gap in today’s lending market, providing fast approval options for people who may not have any other viable short-term alternatives.

If you’ve searched for terms like “low credit score loans,” “bad credit loans online,” or “no credit check payday loans,” this platform is likely one of the most accessible paths forward.

Disclaimer: Meeting the eligibility requirements does not guarantee loan approval. All loan offers are subject to individual lender evaluation and may vary based on your profile.

Why wait? Apply now on BadCreditLoans.com to compare real loan offers in minutes—no obligation, no credit damage. Get funded fast!

Loan Terms, Rates, and Repayment Options

BadCreditLoans.com doesn’t issue loans directly but facilitates access to a broad range of lending options through its network of financial partners. The terms you receive will depend on the lender, your application details, and the type of loan product you pursue. Still, the platform provides a general structure for what borrowers can expect, giving users a clearer view of their options before committing.

Loan Amounts

Borrowers may be eligible for loans ranging from as little as $500 up to $10,000. These amounts can serve a variety of short-term or emergency needs — from utility bills and medical expenses to car repairs and rent payments. The flexibility in loan size ensures that users aren’t forced into borrowing more than they can reasonably afford.

Interest Rates and APR

Annual Percentage Rates (APR) typically fall between 5.99% and 35.99%, depending on the lender and the applicant’s financial profile. Factors that affect your APR include:
- Type of loan selected (e.g., installment vs. payday)
- Your verified income and monthly obligations
- Repayment duration
- Risk assessment performed by the lender
While these rates are higher than those offered to borrowers with excellent credit, they are often more competitive and transparent than traditional payday loan storefronts.

Disclaimer: APR ranges are determined by the individual lender and not BadCreditLoans.com. Your final APR will vary based on lender evaluation. Always review your loan offer carefully before accepting.

Repayment Terms

Repayment windows generally range from 3 months to 60 months. Short-term loans may require lump-sum repayment within a few weeks, while installment loans offer the convenience of scheduled monthly payments over a longer period.

Some lenders may offer early payoff options without penalties, giving borrowers a chance to reduce interest by paying ahead of schedule.

If you’re applying for a small loan to cover urgent costs, many users find repayment periods of 6 to 12 months to be a manageable middle ground, balancing affordability with speed.

Transparency and Disclosures

BadCreditLoans.com emphasizes lender transparency. Borrowers will be presented with:
- Clear breakdowns of loan terms
- Disclosure of fees, if applicable
- Exact monthly payment obligations
- Total repayment amount (including interest)
There are no application or platform fees charged by BadCreditLoans. However, lenders may include origination fees, late payment penalties, or other costs in their individual agreements.

Disclaimer: Loan fees, repayment flexibility, and total interest vary by lender. Be sure to read all terms before signing. Prepayment penalties may apply in some cases — always ask your lender directly if you’re unsure.

Payment Collection Methods

Most lenders automate repayment through scheduled bank account withdrawals. You’ll need to ensure sufficient funds are available on your agreed-upon payment dates to avoid overdraft fees or late penalties.

In some cases, lenders offer web-based portals or mobile app support for tracking your repayment progress, updating payment information, or requesting due date changes.

Who do These Loan Terms Benefit Most

Borrowers looking for:
- Flexibility in repayment schedules
- Fast access to cash without extensive paperwork
- Loans that don’t penalize poor credit history
- A transparent agreement with no hidden clauses
… will likely find these lending structures supportive and adaptive to real-life situations.

For those seeking “bad credit loans online,” “emergency loans with bad credit,” or “fast approval loans” — this section of the process is where peace of mind starts.

Disclaimer on Pricing: Loan costs, interest rates, and fees are determined by individual lenders. Pricing is subject to change at any time. Always check the official BadCreditLoans.com website or your lender’s site for the most up-to-date pricing and terms.

Bad credit won’t hold you back! Submit your free BadCreditLoans.com application now and access emergency loans with flexible terms today!

Comparing BadCreditLoans.com to Other Lending Platforms

Borrowers exploring online lending options for bad credit quickly find that not all services deliver the same value. Some platforms are limited in scope, while others may impose hidden fees or fail to prioritize consumer protection. This section outlines how BadCreditLoans.com stands apart from competing services in the low-credit lending space.

A Broader Network for More Loan Offers

Unlike many payday loan sites that connect users to just one lender, BadCreditLoans.com gives applicants access to a network of vetted financial providers. This increases the chances of receiving multiple offers, helping users compare loan amounts, APRs, and terms. Borrowers seeking “best loans for bad credit” or “emergency loans with bad credit” benefit from this flexible structure.

Zero Application Fees

Many platforms charge upfront service or processing fees, especially those targeting low-credit borrowers. BadCreditLoans.com, in contrast, offers:
- A free, no-obligation loan request process
- No hidden fees for using the service
- Full transparency during the loan-matching stage
This fee-free approach makes it ideal for those already navigating tight budgets or financial emergencies.

Credit-Sensitive Approval Model

While some lenders require a hard credit pull upfront, BadCreditLoans uses a soft credit inquiry during the application process. This means:
- No impact on your credit score
- Broader lender participation for those with credit challenges
- Increased chances of loan approval for credit invisibles or subprime borrowers
Consumers who’ve faced multiple denials from banks or credit unions often find their first path forward here.

Transparency and Borrower Control

The platform gives users the ability to review, decline, or accept any offer without pressure. Each loan offer includes:
- Clear repayment terms
- Transparent APR breakdowns
- Fee disclosures are where applicable
- Direct access to the lender for further questions
Borrowers researching “no credit check payday loans” or “safe online lending for bad credit” will appreciate this open, user-centric approach.

Security and Trust

BadCreditLoans employs advanced encryption to protect personal data. This is a major differentiator in a space where many digital loan platforms fall short on privacy practices. Data is only shared with verified lending partners, and the application is protected by secure protocols.

Summary of Key Differentiators
- BadCreditLoans.com only performs soft credit inquiries
- Applicants receive multiple loan offers rather than being limited to a single lender
- No platform fees or application charges are required to use the service
- Loan terms are flexible and often include longer repayment windows
- All disclosures and terms are provided upfront to encourage informed decisions
- Data privacy and security protocols meet industry standards
These features work together to create a platform that aligns with the needs of borrowers searching for “online payday loans for bad credit” and “fast approval loans with no hidden fees.”

Disclaimer: Terms, availability, and borrower outcomes vary by lender. Always read individual loan offers carefully and verify details directly with the lender before proceeding.

Strapped for cash? Apply at BadCreditLoans.com and see real offers in minutes. No fees, no pressure—just fast loan options made for you.

Customer Testimonials and Reviews

When evaluating any financial service, especially one tailored to individuals with bad credit, real user feedback is one of the most valuable sources of insight. While platform features and lender terms are important, the true test of a lending service’s effectiveness is how it performs in the real world for people in financial distress.

BadCreditLoans.com has garnered a solid reputation over the years, largely because of its consistent delivery of fast, accessible, and transparent loan-matching services. This section captures what users are saying and why these experiences matter for those considering using the platform.

What Customers Are Saying

Many borrowers turn to BadCreditLoans after facing rejection from traditional banks. For these individuals, being matched with a lender who’s willing to work with a poor credit history is not just helpful — it’s essential.

Users commonly report:
- Quick and easy online application process
- No unnecessary paperwork or hidden terms
- Fast loan offers, sometimes within minutes
- Same-day or next-day funding, depending on lender approval
- Appreciation for being treated with respect despite a low credit score
These first-hand accounts reveal a recurring theme: borrowers feel they’ve been given a second chance to stabilize their finances. For people who are used to being penalized for past mistakes, that access alone can be life-changing.

Positive Experiences in Key Areas

Beyond approval and funding speed, users consistently highlight the following:
- The ability to compare multiple lenders without pressure to commit
- Transparent breakdowns of repayment terms and total loan costs
- No hard credit check required for initial loan inquiries
- Helpful support when contacting customer service with questions
This transparency and optionality stand in contrast to many “instant approval” payday loan sites that often steer applicants into rigid or expensive repayment structures without clarity.

Constructive Criticism and Realistic Expectations

While the platform has helped many, it’s important to mention that no lending service is without criticism. Some reviewers mention:
- Higher interest rates from certain lenders
- Confusion about repayment scheduling
- Desire for more frequent lender updates after approval
Most of these critiques are directed at the third-party lenders within the network, not BadCreditLoans itself. This highlights an important point: once a loan offer is accepted, the borrower’s relationship is with the individual lender, not the BadCreditLoans platform.

Disclaimer: Loan experiences vary by borrower. All terms, communication, and funding schedules are set by third-party lenders. Always ask for clarification on repayment dates and APR prior to signing.

Reputation in the Online Lending Industry

BadCreditLoans is frequently listed among the top loan matching platforms for bad credit borrowers, especially those seeking payday loan alternatives. Its long-standing operation, transparent application flow, and no-fee structure continue to position it as a competitive and trustworthy option in the market.

Borrowers who search for “trusted payday loan options in 2025” or “customer-reviewed bad credit loans” will likely encounter BadCreditLoans as a top result, and with good reason.

Don’t let bad credit stop you. Get approved for payday loans today at BadCreditLoans.com. Fast, trusted, and secure. Apply now before it’s too late!

Addressing Potential Concerns and Risks

Borrowing money with a bad credit score can be intimidating — and with good reason. The lending industry is filled with providers who offer fast cash but bury harmful terms in the fine print. For borrowers seeking urgent funds, it’s easy to overlook the long-term impact of loan agreements made under pressure.

BadCreditLoans.com is structured to reduce that risk. Still, it’s important to address the most common concerns borrowers have and explain how the platform helps mitigate them.

Is BadCreditLoans a Scam?

One of the most frequently asked questions from first-time users is whether BadCreditLoans is legitimate. The answer is yes — the platform has been operating since 1998 and functions as a loan matching service, not a lender.
- It does not charge you to apply
- It does not collect payment information for fees
- It does not require loan acceptance to use the platform
BadCreditLoans.com connects borrowers with lenders in a transparent, no-pressure environment and protects user information through secure encryption. For those searching “is BadCreditLoans legit or a scam,” this clarity is critical.

Data Privacy and Security

When entering personal financial details online, privacy is always a concern. BadCreditLoans uses industry-standard encryption and security protocols to ensure your application data is protected. Your information is shared only with the lenders considering your request.

This is a major safeguard, especially compared to unregulated sites that may sell your data to marketing companies or unrelated third parties.

APR and Repayment Risks

Loan agreements provided by BadCreditLoans’ network of lenders can include a wide range of APRs — some exceeding 30%, depending on the applicant’s risk profile and loan type. While these are clearly disclosed during the offer stage, borrowers must remain cautious.

Before accepting any offer:
- Review the total cost of repayment
- Understand the payment schedule and due dates
- Confirm whether early repayment penalties apply
- Contact the lender directly with any questions
Disclaimer: APRs and fees vary by lender. Always read loan terms carefully. Declining a loan offer will not impact your ability to use the platform again.

What Happens if You Miss a Payment?

Missing a payment with any lender can result in late fees, additional interest charges, and possible credit reporting. Most lenders in the BadCreditLoans network offer automated withdrawals and email reminders, but it’s still your responsibility to ensure payments are made on time.

If you foresee a problem:
- Contact your lender in advance
- Request a payment extension or an alternate plan if available
- Avoid default by staying ahead of any upcoming issues
This level of borrower control is another reason BadCreditLoans is often preferred over brick-and-mortar payday loan stores, where flexible repayment terms are rare.

Recognizing Responsible Borrowing Practices

BadCreditLoans emphasizes responsible borrowing through:
- Transparent disclosures
- Soft credit checks that don’t hurt your score
- No-pressure comparisons between offers
- No obligation to accept any loan
These features give borrowers time to make informed decisions and avoid falling into a long-term cycle of high-interest debt.

Bottom Line on Risk

Any financial agreement comes with potential downsides. But for consumers seeking payday loans for bad credit or emergency cash options in 2025, BadCreditLoans offers a safer and more transparent alternative to many of the predatory lenders in the market.

Disclaimer: Not all loan outcomes are ideal for every borrower. If you are unsure about a loan’s terms or repayment structure, consult a financial professional before signing.

Pricing, Fees, and Contact Information

When considering any financial product — especially in the subprime lending space — it’s critical to understand the full cost. One of the most valuable features of BadCreditLoans.com is its commitment to transparency: there are no hidden charges for using the platform, and all lender-provided fees are disclosed upfront before any agreement is made.

Cost to Use the Platform

There is no fee to submit a loan request through BadCreditLoans.com. You can:
- Fill out the application for free
- Receive multiple loan offers with no obligation to accept
- Compare terms and rates from different lenders at no cost
This distinguishes the platform from services that charge application or matching fees, often without improving the borrower’s outcomes.

Possible Lender Fees

Although the platform itself is free to use, individual lenders within the network may include:
- Origination fees
- Late payment penalties
- Prepayment fees (less common, but possible)
- Returned payment fees (e.g., due to insufficient funds)
Lenders are required to disclose all costs, including the APR, total loan repayment amount, and fee structures, before you accept any offer. Reading this information thoroughly is essential to borrowing responsibly.

Disclaimer: All loan fees and pricing are set by the individual lender, not BadCreditLoans.com. Always review the official loan agreement before accepting. Declining an offer does not cost anything.

APR Ranges and Total Cost

APR — or Annual Percentage Rate — is one of the most important numbers to consider. While rates vary, they typically range between 5.99% and 35.99%, depending on your income, credit profile, and loan amount.

A higher APR means a higher cost of borrowing over time. However, lenders offering short-term payday loans for bad credit may still fall within this range, especially when compared to in-person payday storefronts, where APRs can exceed 400%.

Disclaimer on Pricing: The lender provides all APRs, fees, and repayment terms. Pricing is subject to change at any time. Please refer to the official website or the individual lender’s page for the most accurate and current details.

Transparency and Borrower Confidence

Bad Credit Loans does not attempt to upsell, pressure, or manipulate users into accepting offers. You remain fully in control, and the platform’s fee-free approach makes it accessible to anyone seeking a secure and affordable way to explore bad credit loan options.

For those researching “payday loans for bad credit” or “trusted bad credit loan providers,” knowing exactly what you’ll pay — and who to contact if you need help — is essential to making informed financial decisions.

Facing a financial emergency? Apply at BadCreditLoans.com now and unlock low-credit payday loans with no risk to your score. It’s free to try!

Is BadCreditLoans.com the Right Choice for You?

Not every lending platform suits every borrower, but for those facing credit challenges, limited options, or urgent financial needs, BadCreditLoans.com is positioned as a strong contender in the online lending space. This section helps you evaluate whether the platform aligns with your situation, financial goals, and borrowing preferences.

Who Benefits Most from This Platform?

BadCreditLoans.com is ideal for individuals who:
- Have a low credit score or limited credit history
- Need access to emergency funding for bills, repairs, or medical expenses
- Want to avoid predatory payday lenders or high-interest cash advance storefronts
- Are you looking for no-pressure, no-fee online lending options
- Prefer soft credit checks and the ability to compare multiple offers without commitment
If you’ve been searching for “online payday loans for bad credit,” “fast approval loans with no credit check,” or “trusted lenders for low credit borrowers,” this platform is built with your profile in mind.

Key Advantages That Set It Apart
- No upfront fees or hidden platform costs
- Secure online application with soft credit inquiries
- Multiple lender offers based on real-time matching
- Loan amounts from $500 to $10,000 with repayment terms from 3 to 60 months
- Same-day or next-business-day funding in many cases
- Support for financial inclusion, including those labeled as “credit invisibles”
These features work together to provide access, transparency, and a higher degree of borrower control compared to traditional payday loan services.

Important Considerations Before Applying

While the platform is designed to simplify the lending process, you should still approach every loan decision with care:
- Always review each lender’s terms, including APR, fees, and payment schedule
- Make sure you can meet the monthly payment obligations
- Only borrow what you need and can realistically repay within the loan window
- Use the platform’s flexibility to compare offers, not commit to the first one you receive
Borrowers who rush through this stage often overlook repayment costs or potential penalties, leading to unnecessary financial strain later on.

Disclaimer: Loan terms, interest rates, and funding timelines are determined by individual lenders. Approval is not guaranteed. Always verify loan details directly with the lender before signing.

Final Verdict

BadCreditLoans.com provides a streamlined, secure, and user-focused way to explore financing when traditional options are unavailable. It empowers users to compare offers, maintain control over their decisions, and connect with lenders who understand the realities of bad credit borrowing.

If you’re facing urgent financial pressure, need a low-credit loan, and want a platform that prioritizes transparency and trust, BadCreditLoans.com offers a compelling path forward.

Need cash now? Get up to $10,000 even with bad credit. Apply free at BadCreditLoans.com and get lender offers in minutes. No credit harm. Start now!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is BadCreditLoans.com and how does it work?

BadCreditLoans.com is an online loan matching platform that connects individuals with low credit scores to lenders offering payday loans, installment loans, and other short-term financial solutions. Instead of acting as a lender itself, it securely gathers your application information, performs a soft credit inquiry, and uses AI-powered loan matching to present you with offers from vetted lenders — all within minutes.

Can I get a payday loan with bad credit?

Yes. One of the key benefits of using Bad Credit Loans is its focus on helping individuals find payday loans for bad credit. Many lenders in the network specialize in working with borrowers who have low or no credit scores, offering flexible terms and approval based on income and other factors.

Will using BadCreditLoans.com hurt my credit score?

No. The platform only uses soft credit checks during the application process, which do not impact your credit score. However, if you choose to accept a loan offer, the lender may conduct a hard inquiry prior to finalizing approval.

Are no credit check loans really available through BadCreditLoans?

Some lenders in the BadCreditLoans network offer no credit check loans or rely on alternative credit evaluation methods such as income verification, employment history, and banking activity. While not all lenders skip traditional checks, borrowers searching for “no credit check payday loans” will find many accessible options here.

How much money can I borrow?

Loan amounts typically range from $500 to $10,000. The exact amount you’re eligible for depends on your application profile, income level, repayment ability, and the lender’s policies. Whether you need a small cash advance or a larger emergency loan, the platform can match you accordingly.

How fast can I receive the funds?

Many borrowers receive funds within one business day after accepting a loan offer. Some lenders may offer same-day deposit, especially for smaller amounts. This makes BadCreditLoans a useful option for emergency loans with bad credit when time is critical.

Disclaimer: Funding timelines vary by lender and application completeness. Always confirm expected deposit dates directly with your lender.

What are the interest rates and repayment terms?

Annual Percentage Rates (APR) vary between 5.99% and 35.99%, depending on the lender and your financial profile. Repayment terms generally range from 3 to 60 months. Every loan offer includes detailed disclosures regarding the total repayment amount, monthly payments, and fees.

Disclaimer: APRs and repayment terms are determined by individual lenders. Always review the full loan agreement before signing.

Can I repay my loan early?

Many lenders allow early repayment without penalty, potentially saving you money on interest. Always check your specific loan agreement or contact your lender to confirm prepayment terms.

What if I miss a payment?

Missing a payment can result in late fees and negatively impact your credit if the lender reports it. If you anticipate difficulty making a payment, contact your lender immediately. Some lenders may offer payment extensions or restructuring options.

Is BadCreditLoans.com safe to use?

Yes. The platform uses secure encryption protocols to protect your personal and financial data. Your information is shared only with lenders who are evaluating your loan request — never with unrelated third parties.

Who should use BadCreditLoans?

This platform is best suited for:
- Individuals seeking low credit score loans
- Borrowers needing emergency funds with fast approval
- Consumers looking for payday loan alternatives with more flexible repayment options
- Applicants who want to compare multiple lenders through one secure online application
Is there a fee to use BadCreditLoans.com?

No. The platform is completely free to use. You can apply, compare loan offers, and decline offers without paying any fees to BadCreditLoans.com. However, lenders may include fees in their offers, such as origination charges or late penalties.

Low credit? No problem. Apply now at BadCreditLoans.com and get matched with lenders offering fast loans and flexible repayment. Start today!
- Company: BadCreditLoans
- Email: support@badcreditloans.com
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The MIL Network –
May 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ12: Support for small and medium-sized law firms and young barristers

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Following is a question by the Hon Maggie Chan and a written reply by the Secretary for Justice, Mr Paul Lam, SC, in the Legislative Council today (May 7):

Question:

     There are views that, as Hong Kong is the centre for international legal and dispute resolution services in the Asia-Pacific region and where the International Organization for Mediation is located, the development of the legal profession is crucial to enhancing Hong Kong’s business environment governed by the rule of law and giving full play to the unique advantages of Hong Kong’s common law. It is learnt that small and medium-sized law firms and young barristers in Hong Kong face many challenges in terms of market competition, resource allocation and professional development. Regarding the support for small and medium-sized law firms and young barristers, will the Government inform this Council:

(1) whether it has currently formulated specific policies or measures to assist the professional development of small and medium-sized law firms and young barristers; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;

(2) whether it has assessed the effectiveness of the policies or measures mentioned in (1); if it has assessed, whether there are statistics or examples showing that such policies or measures have effectively enhanced the quality and competitiveness of the professional legal services provided by small and medium-sized law firms; and the number of small and medium-sized law firms and young barristers that have benefited so far; if it has not assessed, of the reasons for that;

(3) whether it has assessed the response of the legal profession to the policies or measures mentioned in (1); what specific measures will the Government implement in the future to further support the professional development and enhance the competitiveness of small and medium-sized law firms and young barristers; and

(4) whether it has formulated key performance indicators for supporting the professional development and enhancing the competitiveness of small and medium-sized law firms and young barristers; if so, of the specific details (including the indicators set); if not, the reasons for that?

Reply:

President,

     In response to the enquiry raised by the Hon Maggie Chan, the consolidated reply is as follows:

     A self-regulatory regime is applied for Hong Kong’s legal profession. On the premise of fully respecting the self-regulatory regime of the legal profession, the Department of Justice (DoJ) has all along been implementing various initiatives and new policies to foster an environment conducive to the professional development of the legal sector and create opportunities for them. According to statistics from the Law Society of Hong Kong (Law Society), nearly 90 per cent of law firms in Hong Kong are sole proprietorships or consist of no more than five partners. In formulating and introducing policies, the DoJ will take into account the needs of small and medium-sized law firms.

     Over the years, the DoJ has devised various policies and/or measures to support the professional development of solicitors from small and medium-sized law firms and young barristers with details set out below:

Understudy Programme (Civil/Prosecution Work)

     Launched in mid-2020, the programme aims to provide training opportunities for the less-experienced barristers and solicitors (i.e. with less than five years’ post call/admission experience) to handle civil and prosecution work of the Government in order to broaden their horizon, enrich them with valuable experience and improve their case management skills. The trainings include drafting of legal opinions, conducting legal research, observing lawyers in action in different levels of courts and various hearings, participating in hearing preparation works, acting as junior counsel to senior counsel or counsel or Government Counsel, and assisting in handling more complex cases conducted in the District Court or the Court of First Instance or magistracy cases with lengthy trials. As at March 31, 2025, a total of 297 solicitors and barristers with less than five years’ qualification participated in various civil and criminal works through the programme with satisfactory response. The DoJ has, from time to time, received expressions of interest from solicitors and barristers to participate in the programme, reflecting the continued support and participation from the sector. The DoJ will continue to review and select suitable work to provide more training opportunities to participating solicitors and barristers.

Professional Exchange Programme

     The programme aims to facilitate the exchange of best practices between lawyers in the private sector and DoJ. Qualified private sector lawyers can apply through their law firms/chambers for attachment to DoJ; law firms/chambers interested in accepting exchange lawyers from DoJ can also contact DoJ.

     The feedback of participants on the programme has been positive. Participants considered that their attachment facilitated cross-fertilisation of knowledge and experience and the exchange of best practices.

     The programme was launched in September 2019. As of 2024-25, a total of 19 lawyers (eight lawyers in the private sector and 11 government counsel) have participated in the programme.

     The Professional Exchange Programme has been well-received by the legal sector since its launch. We will continue to maintain close communication with law firms/chambers to facilitate the formulation of suitable exchange arrangements; and will continue to review the implementation of the programme and make refinement in a timely manner.

Secondment Programmes to Relevant International Organisations

     The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region has, with the support of the Central Government, made standing secondment arrangements with the Hague Conference on Private International Law and the International Institute for the Unification of Private Law, which are open to application by all qualified local legal professionals from the public and private sectors (irrespective of the size of the law firms they work in). Since the said secondment arrangements have been put in place, a total of six local barristers and solicitors from the private sector, who have worked in law firms of different sizes, have participated. The DoJ will continue to promote to the legal sector (including young legal professionals) the relevant secondment programmes.

Hong Kong International Legal Talents Training Academy

     Capitalising on Hong Kong’s bilingual common law system and the unique strengths and advantages under the “one country, two systems” principle, the Hong Kong International Legal Talents Training Academy was launched on November 8, 2024. The Academy will make the most of Hong Kong’s bilingual common law system (in English and Chinese), as well as the international status, regularly organise different practical legal courses, seminars and international exchange initiatives, so as to promote talent exchanges in the region and beyond, and provide foreign-related legal talent training for our country, and practical training for the local solicitors and barristers (including young legal professionals) for professional development.

     The capacity-building programmes that the Academy will organise include the “Mainland Civil and Commercial Legal Practice Training Course 2025” from June 13 to 14, 2025, which aims to enable the local legal industry to fully understand the latest developments in civil and commercial practice in the Mainland, the procedures and practical arrangements for handling relevant cases by the Mainland courts and arbitration institutions, and to promote cooperation between local and the Mainland legal industries, so as to provide more comprehensive services to clients; and a seminar on criminal prosecution for prosecutors from the country and Association of Southeast Asian Nations member states, and local solicitors and barristers in September 2025, etc.

     The Academy will design and organise short-term training programmes taking into account the practical needs of small and medium-sized law firms and young barristers. By flexibly arranging the course content and format, the training programmes will address the diverse professional development needs of participants, thereby achieving more focused and effective training outcomes, and fostering the professional growth of small and medium-sized law firms and young barristers.

Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) Legal Professional Examination (GBA Examination)

     Since 2021, eligible Hong Kong and Macao legal practitioners may provide legal services in the nine Mainland municipalities in the GBA on certain civil and commercial matters to which Mainland laws apply (including litigation and non-litigation matters), after passing the GBA Examination and having obtained the Lawyer’s License (GBA). In September 2023, the General Office of the State Council published the revised pilot measures for Hong Kong and Macao legal practitioners to obtain Mainland practice qualifications and to practise law in the nine Mainland municipalities in the GBA (the revised pilot measures), which lowered the practice experience threshold for Hong Kong and Macao legal practitioners to enroll in the GBA Examination from five years to three years. DoJ has worked closely with the Mainland authorities and continued to keep close contact with the two legal professional bodies as well as encouraging more Hong Kong legal practitioners to enroll in the GBA Examination.

     There are now Hong Kong legal practitioners who are GBA lawyers taking up court cases of the nine Mainland municipalities in the GBA and appearing in court as litigation representatives, as well as taking up GBA arbitration cases, with cases being duly completed. With the benefit of the lowered practice experience threshold, from 2024, more Hong Kong and Macao legal practitioners, including young Hong Kong barristers and solicitors, would be eligible to enroll in the GBA Examination, thus obtaining dual qualification in the Mainland and Hong Kong, and be able to seize the unlimited opportunities brought by the developments in the GBA.

     The GBA Examination has been held four times. As at the end of March 2025, over 550 Hong Kong and Macao legal practitioners have obtained the Lawyer’s License (GBA).

     Hong Kong legal practitioners have responded enthusiastically towards the GBA Examination. Before September 2023, there were some legal practitioners interested in practising in the nine Mainland municipalities but were unable to enroll in the GBA Examination due to the practice experience threshold. The revised pilot measures lowered the practice experience threshold for Hong Kong and Macao legal practitioners to enroll in the GBA Examination, responded to the aspirations of young Hong Kong legal practitioners and encouraged them to participate in the construction of rule of law in the GBA.

GBA Mediator Training Course of Hong Kong

     To promote the interface of the non-litigation dispute resolution services in the GBA and to enhance the understanding of Hong Kong mediators regarding the mediation systems in Guangdong and Macao, the DoJ held the GBA Mediator Training Course of Hong Kong on August 16, 2024. Since the number of registered participants far exceeded the maximum capacity of the event venue, the DoJ specially introduced online mode to accommodate more participants. More than 400 participants have attended the Course, including young lawyers from Hong Kong. Mediation experts from Guangdong and Macao were invited to share the respective mediation systems, culture and experience of Guangdong and Macao, as well as to explore the latest developments of cross-boundary disputes mediation in the GBA and the cultural difference and integration in mediation of the three places. The course discussed topics including the means and skills in handling cross-boundary disputes, enhancing Hong Kong lawyers’ understanding of handling cross-boundary disputes in the GBA. The DoJ will consider conducting further relevant courses as necessary in the future.

The Deputy Secretary for Justice led delegations of young lawyers to visit GBA Mainland cities

     The Deputy Secretary for Justice led two delegations of young representatives from the legal sector to visit GBA Mainland cities, including Huizhou, Shenzhen and Foshan in September and November 2023. The visits helped young legal professionals and law students deepen their understanding of the legal systems of the GBA Mainland cities and that of the Mainland, further connect their career development with the overall national development and deepen their collaboration with the legal sector of other GBA cities, so as to jointly promote high-quality national development. Number of delegates of the two delegations exceeded 70 people, including young representatives of the Law Society and the Hong Kong Bar Association, young government counsel of the DoJ, and law students from the three law schools.

Updating the Talent List

     The Government announced to update the Talent List to include “Legal Knowledge Engineers”. The new arrangement took effect on March 1, 2025 in response to the legal profession’s need for artificial intelligence. The introduction of “Legal Knowledge Engineers” helps improve the efficiency of legal professional services and promote high value-added development of Hong Kong’s economy and society.

     By developing artificial intelligence systems, “Legal Knowledge Engineers” act as a bridge between lawyers and other general programmers, developing artificial intelligence systems specifically for law firms. They can help law firms (including small and medium-sized law firms) improve work efficiency, for example, when conducting due diligence, the searching of key terms within huge volumes of documents can produce highly accurate responses within a short period of time.

ROLE Stars Train-the-Leaders Programme (TTL Programme)

     Since the launching of the TTL Programme in November 2023, through collaboration with relevant organisations and stakeholders, three phases of courses have been developed. Young lawyers have been invited as speakers and facilitators. The DoJ enhances the law-abiding awareness of young people and the public in a holistic manner, and to increase the understanding of the rule of law principles and the legal system through the TTL Programme. Since its launch, the TTL Programme has attracted over 350 trainees, including 36 young lawyers as facilitators.

DoJ i-Day

     The event was led by young in-house lawyers of the DoJ “DoJ Fellows” in August and September 2023, and there are plans to hold a similar open day in June 2025. The event provided young lawyers with an opportunity to meet young people who aspire to join the legal profession, and also allowed those who have not yet joined the legal sector to deepen their understanding of the legal field and the work of the DoJ. The event in 2023 attracted more than 330 trainee solicitors, trainee barristers, legal professionals, law-degree students and students from other degrees and the general public to participate.

     Given the nature of the work of the DoJ, the benefits of a measure or policy to society may not be entirely quantifiable, the DoJ does not possess the relevant key performance indicators on the above measures or policies in support of the professional development of solicitors from small and medium-sized law firms and young barristers. The Government will continue to introduce measures or policies at appropriate times and update existing ones from time to time to align them with the latest development of the profession.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

May 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Protecting citizens and democracy against the threat of deepfake and AI-generated content – E-001742/2025

Source: European Parliament

Question for written answer E-001742/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Dan-Ştefan Motreanu (PPE)

The Danish Government recently announced its intention to ban the distribution of deepfake videos and AI-generated content without the consent of the individuals depicted. The government argues that current legislation is insufficient to protect democracy, public discourse and personal identity from the harmful effects of manipulated content. To address this, Denmark plans to amend its Copyright Act by introducing a new right for individuals over the use of their own body, voice, facial features and image. The proposal would allow for a ban on the distribution of deepfakes and AI-generated material portraying individuals without their consent.

Given the serious threats that non-consensual deepfake content poses to personal rights, trust in public information and democratic stability across the EU, swift and coordinated action at European level is urgently needed.

What concrete measures does the Commission intend to take to address the risks posed by deepfake and AI-generated content and to ensure the protection of citizens’ identity and dignity and democratic values across the Union?

Submitted: 30.4.2025

Last updated: 7 May 2025

MIL OSI Europe News –

May 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – The EU’s digital transformation programmes and the European funds that have been disbursed to achieve it – E-001032/2025(ASW)
Source: European Parliament

The Digital Europe Programme (DEP), the first programme entirely dedicated to the deployment of digital infrastructures and an important enabler of the European digital transition, has an overall budget of EUR 8.1 billion for funding activities in six areas: supercomputing, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, advanced digital skills, ensuring the wide use of digital technologies across the economy and society and semiconductors.

Due to the 50% funding rate of the programme, the same amount is being invested by Member States and beneficiaries from the programme.

2024 saw the signature of the 500th grant under DEP. This milestone represents an overall investment of EUR 3.3 billion, with EUR 1.9 billion contributed from the DEP budget. Over EUR 1 billion has been invested in over 140 procurements and in contribution agreements.

Through InvestEU, EUR 83.63 million have been committed to support strategic digital technologies and EUR 67 million for investments in semiconductor technologies that are expected to mobilise EUR 2.1 billion.

The implementation of DEP is on track to achieve its objectives. A number of big initiatives have been launched: deployment of world-class supercomputers and artificial intelligence factories, launch of leading semiconductor pilot lines, European Digital Identity ( eID) pilot projects, The European Quantum Communication Infrastructure Initiative (EuroQCI), security operation centres, Destination Earth, the European Virtual Human Twins Initiative, and the network of Digital Innovation Hubs in all Member States.

These flagship initiatives for the EU are now well recognised by the Member States and stakeholders alike, paving the way for European digital transition.

Detailed data on the implementation of DEP, including financial data, can be found in the DIGITAL dashboard[1].
- [1] https://dashboard.tech.ec.europa.eu/qs_digit_dashboard_mt/public/extensions/CNECT_DIGITAL_dashboard/CNECT_DIGITAL_dashboard.html
MIL OSI Europe News –
May 8, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Myanmar: Life-saving education funding must be restored following USAID cuts

Source: Amnesty International

The United States and other governments must urgently find funding for education programmes in Myanmar that were a lifeline for students, teachers and families in the war-torn country, Amnesty International said today, as it warned of a “lost generation” if no action is taken.

Testimony from teachers and students gathered by Amnesty International showed the impact on Myanmar students of US President Donald Trump’s sweeping cuts to foreign aid, which included the termination of more than US$70 million in funding for education programmes in Myanmar, according to those involved in the efforts.

“The battering of Myanmar’s education sector since the 2021 military coup has robbed millions of young people of opportunities. These US cuts to education programmes now make the prospect of a lost generation increasingly likely,” said Joe Freeman, Amnesty International’s Myanmar Researcher.

“But it is not too late to fill this vacuum in Myanmar students’ education. Governments and universities in the US and beyond must find a way to enable them to continue their studies and prevent them being sent back to a conflict zone, where they are at risk of arbitrary detention, torture and other ill-treatment; aerial and ground attacks on their communities; and forced conscription into a military that routinely resorts to human rights abuses as a strategy of war.”

The US-funded education programmes, enacted after the coup, supported Myanmar students studying at Southeast Asian universities; online higher education initiatives; and basic education services for children in ethnic, remote and rural communities.

They were a rare bright spot in an ever-deteriorating human rights situation in the country, where to date more than 6,000 civilians have been killed and more than 20,000 detained. In 2025, nearly 20 million people are expected to need humanitarian assistance.

A 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck central Myanmar on 28 March 2025, killing nearly 4,000 people and destroying hospitals, homes, monasteries and at least 1,000 schools, has only exacerbated these needs. It will also create additional hurdles for students seeking an education after more than four years of armed conflict in the country.

“The US cuts to foreign aid made a bad situation worse. The Trump administration must reverse course and not abandon Myanmar students working to fulfill their dreams under extremely challenging circumstances. But if the US continues to fail Myanmar’s young people, other governments, universities and donors must step up and help,” Joe Freeman said.

Myanmar education sector in turmoil

After the Myanmar military seized power on 1 February 2021, teachers and students walked out of schools in protest, entering a parallel education system under the deposed civilian government with new schools built from scratch, using existing buildings such as people’s homes and carried out online.

The military responded by arresting teachers and attacking schools with air strikes, as armed conflict intensified across the country, especially in places where schools in areas outside of military control were functioning. The overall situation led to a sharp decline in enrolment rates, limited access to functioning schools and a shortage in materials for teaching. Against this backdrop the US-funded education programmes carried out vital work to fill the void while also helping shield students, teachers and parents from human rights abuses.

Since late last year, Amnesty International has conducted remote and in-person interviews with more than 50 people involved in education across Myanmar from Chin, Rakhine, Kayah and Karenni States, as well as Magwe, Sagaing and Mandalay Regions and individuals living in exile. They include students, teachers, education officials, parents and survivors of air strikes on schools. All stressed the vital importance of education for the future of the country, despite the constant disruptions in providing it.

One teacher told Amnesty International: “Even when I’m teaching, I’m always on edge, especially when I hear aircraft overhead. There have been moments when I’ve heard the sound of artillery while teaching, which is deeply unsettling.”

Another said: “The main goal now is to prevent any disruption to the children’s learning, so schools have been reopened wherever possible. However, the quality of education isn’t as high as it was before the coup, mainly because of the constant need to relocate due to safety concerns. Teachers and students often have to flee both day and night, which disrupts the learning process.”

Among the most recent interviewees were recipients of a US-funded initiative called the Diversity and Inclusion Scholarship Program (DISP). Launched in 2024, this USD45 million USAID-funded programme aimed to support 1,000 students from Myanmar to study in universities online and across Southeast Asia in Cambodia, Indonesia, the Philippines and Thailand.

But it became an early and very public victim of President Trump’s attacks on anything related to diversity, equity and inclusion. One of his first announcements as president was to cancel the program, singling it out again in his joint remarks to Congress in March.

“While the US administration has falsely portrayed this programme as a prime example of wasteful spending, it is anything but. The students we spoke to describe the programme as providing a safe haven to them in times of war back home and of reinvigorating their dreams,” Joe Freeman said.

Miranda, 18, was in high school when the coup happened, and like other students participated in protests. Her family later fled to eastern Myanmar, where she witnessed gunfights and bombings, eventually crossing over into Thailand to seek shelter.

“When I got the [DISP] scholarship it was like a golden chance for me to start my new life again,” said Miranda, who was pursuing a degree in tourism management in the Philippines.

She had only finished her first semester when the programme was cancelled, making her one of hundreds across the region without support.

“If we have to go back to our country … we will be lost again.”

Oakley, a student from central Myanmar, faces similar challenges. But when he received the DISP scholarship, it gave him hope of a better future.

“I have experienced a lot of bomb explosions, a lot of war around my village. That is really devastating,” he told Amnesty International. “I believed that this was my life-changing opportunity. I feel shocked and so hopeless.”

Students like Miranda and Oakley fear going back to Myanmar, where they could be arrested for supporting anti-coup protests or be among Myanmar’s many victims of air strikes.

“Even though we want to go back to Myanmar, we cannot,” Oakley said. “The situation in Myanmar is not safe anymore.”

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

May 8, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Transport – It’s good to be a truckie on the Coast

Source: Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand

National road freight association Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand is partnering with Teletrac Navman to produce a detailed snapshot of the road transport sector.

The report will be released at Transporting New Zealand’s South Island Road Freight Seminar in Christchurch on 28 June.

One of the early findings is that truck drivers on the West Coast of the South Island do well in comparison to the rest of New Zealand.

“The latest Census data shows that the West Coast has the best-paid truck drivers in the country, followed by Southland and Waikato,” says Transporting New Zealand’s Policy and Advocacy Lead, Billy Clemens.

“This varies according to the different regional freight tasks and demands. Our analysis will dig into that further.”

The upcoming report will analyse shifts in age, gender, income trends, and even home ownership across the 33,000-strong truck-driving workforce.

It is the latest element of the Driving Change Diversity Programme, sponsored by fleet management solutions provider Teletrac Navman as part of that company’s commitment to supporting workforce development in the transport sector.

Clemens says having an evidence-based report of workforce trends will help road freight businesses with planning and building resilience.

“We know that over 30,000 New Zealanders work as truck drivers – as at 2023, this figure was up to 33,744. However, we’ve been missing evidence-based insights into the number of women working in the industry, the age of the workforce, average hours worked, income, and other demographic trends.

“Our Road Transport Workforce Snapshot will look at data from the past three censuses, along with other authoritative data sources, to paint a comprehensive picture.

“This information will help ensure Transporting New Zealand and our members are prepared for changes in the workforce, help guide our policy and project priorities and will demonstrate the progress the road freight sector is making in workforce development.”

“Transporting New Zealand is incredibly grateful for Teletrac Navman’s ongoing support of the Driving Change Diversity Programme and the Road Transport Workforce Report.”

Caption for the attached graphic:

Regional Rankings – Mean Truck Driver Income Across New Zealand (according to 2023 Census data)

1. West Coast

2. Southland

3. Waikato

4. Tasman

5. Marlborough

6. Manawatū-Whanganui

7. Canterbury

8. Otago

9. Taranaki

10. Bay of Plenty

11. Hawke’s Bay

12. Auckland

13. Northland

14. Nelson

15. Wellington

16. Gisborne

About Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand

Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand is the peak national membership association representing the road freight transport industry. Our members operate urban, rural and inter- regional commercial freight transport services throughout the country.

Road is the dominant freight mode in New Zealand, transporting 92.8% of the freight task on a tonnage basis, and 75.1% on a tonne-km basis. The road freight transport industry employs over 34,000 people across more than 4700 businesses, with an annual turnover of $6 billion.

About Teletrac Navman

Teletrac Navman’s goal is to empower the industries that transform and sustain our futures with simple and intelligent solutions that enhance the efficiency, safety, and sustainability of their operation.

As a connected mobility platform for industries that manage vehicle and equipment assets, Teletrac Navman simplifies the complex so that its customers can transform the way they work through cloud-based solutions that leverage AI to unlock the power of operational insight. Teletrac Navman manages more than 700,000 vehicles and assets around the world. The company operates globally, with offices worldwide and headquarters in Northbrook IL. For more information visit www.teletracnavman.com. Teletrac Navman is a Vontier company.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

May 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Beyond Slim Design: Discover Unprecedented Innovation with Galaxy S25 Edge

Source: Samsung

Over the last decade, smartphones have undergone a remarkable transformation – becoming more powerful and intelligent than ever before. As the advent of mobile AI has raised the bar for what these devices can achieve, so has our expectation for peak performance. Integrating AI has fundamentally reshaped mobile experiences, turning smartphones from convenient tools into indispensable companions for connection, creativity and productivity. As our reliance on these devices grows, so do our expectations for them to be portable and lightweight without sacrificing power and innovation.

We’re constantly striving to understand our users’ evolving needs, innovating to bring them what they’re looking for. By pushing the boundaries of mobile technology, we’re going beyond what users expect and opening up new possibilities. The latest addition to the Galaxy S series is both a powerful AI companion and an engineering marvel, merging flagship-level performance with superior portability.

This is more than a slim smartphone. Every curve, contour and component reflects a breakthrough in precise engineering to create a premium experience worthy of the S series name. The Galaxy S25 Edge not only sets a new standard for what you can achieve with your smartphone, but it also unlocks a new era of growth for the mobile industry.

As the newest edition to the Galaxy S25 series, Galaxy S25 Edge embodies the ultimate camera experience – and takes it one step further with mobile AI that empowers users to reach new creative realms in every aspect of mobile photography, from capturing to editing and sharing. Even with its slim form, Galaxy S25 Edge’s 200MP wide lens continues Galaxy’s iconic camera experience, delivering pro-grade capabilities to intuitively capture the world around you. And thanks to Galaxy AI, the camera transforms into a smart lens that helps recognise what matters to create new memories.

Join us online on May 13 9am KST / 1am BST as we introduce the next evolution of Galaxy. Discover how Galaxy engineers built on years of innovation and visionary thinking shaped by you to reimagine everything you expect from a smartphone.

MIL OSI Economics –

May 8, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Speech at the AML Summit 2025

Source: NZ Music Month takes to the streets

Good morning and a warm welcome to everyone, it’s a pleasure to be here.

Let me start by thanking AML Solutions for giving me the opportunity to speak on the 10^th anniversary of the AML Summit.

I know you have a busy and interesting schedule to look forward to over the next couple of days. This year’s conference theme is aptly named “The evolution of Risk”. I understand that the presentations will focus on supporting reporting entities to understand what best-practice compliance looks like under a reformed risk-based and flexible AML/CFT system.

This theme is future-focused – and touches on issues I have spent a lot of time thinking about and planning for since becoming responsible for the AML/CFT portfolio in my role as Associate Minister of Justice.

You will likely know that last year Cabinet approved my plans for an AML/CFT reform programme. The objectives of legislative reform are to meet the objectives this government committed to in our coalition agreement: and that is to tackle organised crime and cut red tape.

How can New Zealand reform AML/CFT regulation to reduce burden on industry and support a common-sense approach to compliance; while still ensuring we are well placed to tackle organised crime and protect our international reputation as a trusted place to do business?

How do we equip ourselves to deal with new and emerging challenges and threats in this space? How can we harness new technologies to help us fight crime more effectively and make it easier and cheaper for businesses to defend themselves against money laundering?

How will we ensure that we, as a country, are doing our part in this inherently global fight – in a fractious world where the nexus of organised crime and international conflicts is growing?

Over the last year I have taken advice and considered many of the challenges facing the sector in detail. Many of you in this room, or online, will have been involved in and contributed to this advice. I am so grateful for your hard work and specialist contributions. Your expertise is invaluable – it enables robust discussion and informed decision-making.

Now is the time to deliver on our coalition commitments. The Act has now been in force for 11 years and we know the current system is not delivering as well as it could for New Zealanders, businesses, or for law enforcement.

This is because the laws and requirements are highly complex and not sufficiently risk based. As a result, they can be repetitive and unnecessarily burdensome. I have heard from many New Zealanders that the requirements are confusing, obstructive, and costly.

Some of the examples they have given me illustrate how absurd these requirements can be. I ’ve heard from mothers who’ve told me they cannot open bank accounts for their child unless they are able to prove where their child lives. I’ve heard from elderly widows, who had relied on their husbands to take care of bills and are now unable to have a bank account in their own name because they have no written proof to say they live in their own home. These are clear indications of how the system is failing to take a properly risk-based approach.

Multiple reviews of the current system have also identified deficiencies that make it harder for the system to effectively deter and combat the criminal activity that we know is taking place in New Zealand.

At New Zealand’s latest mutual evaluation, the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) reported on several strengths in the New Zealand system but also highlighted that there is room for significant improvement.

I know you will be aware that compliance with international standards is incredibly important for New Zealand’s global reputation and financial standing. We know that FATF recommendations are now tougher, and that there are still many actions from our last evaluation that we need to address. Regulatory reform is needed to ensure we do well at our next evaluation.

But let’s not belabour what we already know about the deficiencies. Let’s instead focus on opportunities for the future and what we can achieve through this reform programme. To me, reform presents a great opportunity to enhance the strengths of our system, and to address identified concerns.

We know, for example, that the wider Financial Crime Group do excellent work, especially relating to asset recovery. We only need to cast our eyes to very recent news stories – I’m thinking of the announcement last September of the highly successful operation against the Comanchero gang which saw $5.8 million worth of assets restrained – to know law enforcement across the system is working hard and achieving remarkable successes through their work. A look at the latest Police annual report shows that over $72 million of assets were restrained from organised and financial crime, and 379 money laundering investigations resulted in prosecution.

We also know there is sound domestic cooperation and coordination on monitoring possible terrorist financing – the FATF told us so, at our latest mutual evaluation.

The FATF have also noted that we are known internationally for our high-quality responsiveness to cooperation requests.

In other words, New Zealand already does lots of things well. Our focus is therefore on improving the AML/CFT system to enhance these strengths. Let’s enable the system and its actors to achieve the intended outcomes: to detect and deter money laundering and terrorism financing.

This Government is about quality regulation. We want regulation that achieves intended outcomes, regulation that makes sense and is workable for all. This means getting rid of unnecessary red-tape– if regulation isn’t providing the results we are after, there is no point to it.

In the case of the AML/CFT system, regulation needs to contribute to the fundamental purpose of the system: tackling crime. To do that effectively, we need an agile, streamlined system that is laser focussed on real risk.

A truly risk-based system will better enable law enforcement to crack down on organised crime by providing the financial intelligence needed to go after criminal organisations. A truly risk-based system is more aligned with international obligations and standards. A truly risk-based system will provide regulatory relief for lower risk businesses and the public.

My reform programme, therefore, will be undertaken in three parts. The first phase is already well-advanced and will deliver immediate regulatory relief via two bills – the first, the Statutes Amendment Bill, has already been reported back from Select Committee to the House of Representatives, and is likely to come into effect in the coming months. The second, the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Terrorism Financing Amendment Bill, is currently before select committee.

The changes made through these bills include removing both address verification requirements for many customers, and relaxing enhanced customer due diligence requirements for lower-risk trusts. This will help make it easier for mums and dads to set up bank accounts for their kids, and easier for vulnerable kiwis – including the elderly – to get access to essential financial services.

This first set of reforms aims to make immediate changes, to make the AML/CFT system more risk-based and ease the regulatory burden on businesses.

These changes alone already represent the most significant regulatory relief in the history of the AML/CFT regime. But we do not intend to stop there.

The second phase of changes focuses on structural reforms for the regime. Cabinet has agreed that, as part of these structural reforms, we will be implementing a single AML/CFT supervisor structure within the Department of Internal Affairs. This will replace the current three-supervisor model.

This move will create a more efficient, effective, and risk-based supervisory structure – one that reduces unnecessary compliance costs for lower-risk businesses and transactions, removes the need for multi-supervisor coordination efforts – thereby reducing costs – and streamlines decision-making.

A single supervisor can be more resource responsive to the ever-changing risk environment. A single supervisor will be better able to deliver consistent and timely guidance to support reporting entities.

This will help to ensure that businesses have the confidence to take a more flexible approach to implementing their AML/CFT obligations and lower the barrier to accessing financial services for low-risk customers.

A single supervisor with overview of the wider AML/CFT environment will also be better able to look for and realise opportunities as they arise. For example, I’m sure we all agree that there are opportunities and benefits to be gained in the digital identity and open banking areas. In addition, the emergence of AI could herald improved, and more cost effective, electronic Know Your Customer (eKYC) functions, risk assessments, and suspicious activity reporting.

Everyone here will be aware that in a world of increasing demands, the AML/CFT system in New Zealand is currently underfunded. My phase two structural reforms will also see us work towards introducing a sustainable funding model for the system.

The new hybrid funding model will establish an industry-levy. I will ensure that this levy is designed in a way that distributes the costs in a risk appropriate and equitable way, so that it targets the highest risk sectors – such as large international banks – and does not place an undue burden on small businesses.

This hybrid funding model will provide sufficient resourcing for core regulatory functions and deliver substantial savings to the Crown. This approach is in line with what has been done in other like-minded jurisdictions, like Australia, the United Kingdom and Canada.

As part of the work on the funding model, a work programme and a National Strategy will be developed in partnership with industry and agreed by Cabinet to ensure that the system is focussed on industry priorities. Any changes to the levy will also need to be informed by the AML/CFT National Strategy.

Now, I know that many of you in this room will have opinions and views on the approach we have taken to these structural reforms. I look forward to engaging with you and drawing on your sector expertise as we get stuck into the detail of this change process.

The structural changes in phase two of my reforms will result in an amendment Bill that I aim to have introduced by the middle of this year. Officials are currently working on the details of developing and implementing the levy, but I expect that the earliest it would be in place is by 2027.

The third phase of these reforms will deliver wider legislative changes to implement international standards outlined by the FATF. This Bill will be introduced later in this Parliamentary term.

Doing this international compliance work will have a natural flow on effect that improves New Zealand entities’ ability to carry on with business and sharpens our law enforcement tools. Importantly, it includes amendments to provide further flexibility for businesses to take a more risk-based approach to their AML/CFT obligations.

The work programme was designed to address specific areas that were identified through robust stakeholder consultation during the 2022 Statutory Review of the AML/CFT Act and further targeted engagement has been undertaken since then.

I am aware there is room for improvement in other areas as well – and some of you may be disappointed that more statutory reforms are not currently being progressed.

In arriving at my current statutory reform programme, I have taken a pragmatic approach – the current fiscal environment dictates that we are smart and outcomes-focused with our reforms. Right now, this means prioritising the changes that will give us the biggest bang for our buck in terms of regulatory relief, while ensuring compliance with international expectations and supporting law enforcement to tackle organised crime and delivering regulatory relief.

We need to prioritise this legislative work programme first to ensure that changes to the law are made and the system is properly set up to take a risk-based approach in time for our next mutual evaluation in 2028. I am excited and proud that this reform programme is on track to deliver the most significant regulatory relief since the Act came into force in 2013.

But, like you, I want to do more, if I can. I am committed to look for opportunities to do just that, not only through reforms to legislation, but also through considering potential exemptions and regulations that will support a more risk-based AML/CFT system.

I look forward to working with you all as we move forward with all the parts of this reform programme. To me, the key to successfully strengthening the AML/CFT system through these reforms is collaboration and leveraging expertise in the sector.

I encourage you all to participate in consultation when these opportunities come up. We need people with experience and knowledge to get involved – we need you. I look forward to hearing your views on how we can make the laws work for you.

Thank you for having me today, it’s a pleasure to be here with you all. Enjoy your time here at the conference.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

May 8, 2025

MIL-OSI: Enerflex Ltd. Announces Voting Results of The Annual Meeting of Shareholders

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

CALGARY, Alberta, May 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Enerflex Ltd. (TSX: EFX) (NYSE: EFXT) (“Enerflex” or the “Company”), announces that at its Annual Meeting of Shareholders (the “Meeting”) held virtually on May 7, 2025, Enerflex’s shareholders approved the election of all 8 nominee directors presented in the Company’s Management Information Circular dated March 21, 2025. The shares represented at the Meeting voting on individual nominee directors were as follows:


	Approval		Against
Director	Votes For	Percentage	Votes Against	Percentage
Fernando R. Assing	88,086,739	96.24%	3,444,156	3.76%
Benjamin Cherniavsky	88,013,957	96.16%	3,516,938	3.84%
Joanne Cox	83,911,502	91.68%	7,619,393	8.32%
James C. Gouin	83,037,269	90.72%	8,493,626	9.28%
Mona Hale	88,091,517	96.24%	3,439,378	3.76%
Kevin J. Reinhart	79,599,459	86.96%	11,931,436	13.04%
Thomas B. Tyree, Jr.	74,636,089	81.54%	16,894,806	18.46%
Juan Carlos Villegas	79,933,294	87.33%	11,597,601	12.67%

Enerflex’s non-binding advisory vote on executive compensation (“Say-on-Pay”) was approved with 91.59% (83,831,845 common shares) of the shares represented at the Meeting voting in favour of the resolution.

ABOUT ENERFLEX

Enerflex is a premier integrated global provider of energy infrastructure and energy transition solutions, deploying natural gas, low-carbon, and treated water solutions – from individual, modularized products and services to integrated custom solutions. With over 4,600 engineers, manufacturers, technicians, and innovators, Enerflex is bound together by a shared vision: Transforming Energy for a Sustainable Future. The Company remains committed to the future of natural gas and the critical role it plays, while focused on sustainability offerings to support the energy transition and growing decarbonization efforts.

Enerflex’s common shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol “EFX” and on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “EFXT”. For more information about Enerflex, visit www.enerflex.com.

For investor and media enquiries, please contact the Company by email to chair@enerflex.com or ir@enerflex.com.

The MIL Network –

May 8, 2025

MIL-OSI: Athabasca Oil Announces 2025 First Quarter Results Highlighted by 63% Growth in Funds Flow Per Share and Strong Operational Execution Driving a Robust Return of Capital Program

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

CALGARY, Alberta, May 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Athabasca Oil Corporation (TSX: ATH) (“Athabasca” or the “Company”) is pleased to report its first quarter results highlighted by strong operational execution driving robust return of capital with the full completion of its second annual share buyback program. The Company is in an enviable position to weather market volatility with low corporate break-evens, long-life assets and a pristine balance sheet.

Q1 2025 Consolidated Corporate Results

Production: Average production of 37,714 boe/d (98% Liquids), representing 13% (24% per share) growth year over year.
Cash Flow: Adjusted Funds Flow of $130 million ($0.25 per share), representing 63% per share growth year over year. Cash Flow from Operating Activities of $123 million. Free Cash Flow of $71 million from Athabasca (Thermal Oil).
Capital Program: $63 million total capital expenditures, with $44 million at Leismer as the Company advances the 40,000 bbl/d progressive growth project.

Operations Highlights

Leismer: Production of ~28,000 bbl/d (April 2025) following the start-up of six redrills in the first quarter. Four additional new well pairs will be brought on stream in H2 2025 to maintain production rates at facility capacity.
Hangingstone: Production has increased to ~8,900 bbl/d (April 2025) following the start-up of two well pairs. The project continues to deliver meaningful free cash flow generation for the Company.
Duvernay Energy: Two multi-well pads (seven gross wells) are slated to be completed post break-up and will continue operational momentum in the Kaybob Duvernay play. Capital is trending ~$10 million lower than the 2025 budget at an estimated ~$75 million.

Resilient Producer in a Shifting Global Landscape

Macro Volatility: Global oil benchmarks have softened in recent months in response to an accelerated OPEC+ supply outlook and evolving U.S. trade policy. Athabasca is uniquely positioned to withstand market volatility and its production is USMCA compliant and exempt from U.S. tariffs.
Pristine Balance Sheet & Tax Free Horizon: Athabasca has a Net Cash position of $115 million, strong Liquidity of $438 million (including $305 million cash) and a long dated maturity of 2029 on its term debt. The Company has $2.2 billion of tax pools (~80% high-value and immediately deductible).
Low Decline, Long Life Assets: Athabasca is uniquely positioned with a low base corporate decline and the Company expects to maintain Thermal Oil production in 2025 following recent capital projects. Athabasca has a deep inventory across its portfolio including 1,209 MMbbl of Proved plus Probable Thermal Oil reserves and ~444 gross future drilling locations within Duvernay Energy.
Low Break-evens: Long-life, low decline assets afford Athabasca with a sustaining capital advantage. The Company’s 2025 Thermal Oil operating break-even is estimated at ~US$32/bbl WTI and the capital program which includes growth initiatives is fully funded within cash flow down to ~US$48/bbl WTI for the balance of the year. The Company estimates long term sustaining capital investment of ~C$8/bbl (five‐year annual average) to hold production flat.
Flexible Capital: The Thermal Oil capital projects are flexible, highly economic and have optionality to be recalibrated based on the macroeconomic environment. Duvernay Energy retains significant flexibility on the pace of its operations and is positioned with an independent balance sheet and no near-term land expiries.
Sound Heavy Oil Fundamentals: The outlook for Canadian heavy oil remains strong supported by the Trans Mountain Expansion pipeline start-up in May 2024 and sustained global refining demand. This has resulted in tighter and less volatile WCS heavy differentials with spot markets currently trading at ~US$9/bbl. Athabasca is a direct beneficiary of structurally tighter differentials that are forecasted to hold in the coming years.

Durable Shareholder Returns

Full Execution of Second Normal Course Issuer Bid (“NCIB”): On March 17, the Company fully completed its second annual NCIB, returning $289 million to shareholders and purchasing and cancelling 55 million shares.
Continued 100% of Free Cash Flow (Thermal Oil) Return to Shareholders through Buybacks in 2025: The Company renewed its third annual NCIB with capacity to repurchase up to 50 million shares. The Company has completed $94 million in share buybacks year to date. Athabasca has reduced its fully diluted share count by ~20% since March 31, 2023.
Durable Shareholder Returns: The Company’s capital allocation framework will continue to balance near-term return of capital initiatives for shareholders with a multi-year growth trajectory of cash flow per share. The Company sees significant intrinsic value not reflected in the current share price and intends to remain active with its share buyback strategy.

Strategic Update and Corporate Guidance

Athabasca (Thermal Oil): The Thermal Oil division underpins the Company’s strong Free Cash Flow outlook, with production guidance of 33,500 – 35,500 bbl/d and a ~$250 million capital budget. Athabasca has differentiated and significant unrecovered capital balances on its Thermal Oil Assets that ensure a low Crown royalty framework (~7%¹). Leismer is forecasted to remain pre-payout until late 2027¹ (and beyond with incremental project capital) while Hangingstone is forecasted to remain pre-payout beyond 2030¹.
Consolidated Production Outlook: Athabasca’s consolidated annual production guidance is 37,500 – 39,500 boe/d. Current production is ~40,000 boe/d and with current capital plans the Company is expecting to be at the upper end of guidance and anticipates exiting the year at ~41,000 boe/d.
Leismer Progressive Growth: The 2025 program at Leismer includes the tie-in of six redrills and four new well pairs on Pad 10 along with continued pad and facility expansion work for the progressive expansion to 40,000 bbl/d. This expansion project is highly economic (~$25,000/bbl/d capital efficiency) and provides flexibility with interim growth targets to ~32,000 bbl/d and ~35,000 bbl/d before achieving the regulatory approved 40,000 bbl/d capacity.
Duvernay Energy Corporation: The 2025 capital program of ~$75 million will continue production momentum in H2 2025 with an exit target of ~6,000 boe/d. Capital activity includes the completion of a 100% working interest (“WI”) three-well pad that was drilled in 2024, the drilling and completion of a 30% WI four-well pad (spud in Q1 2025) and the construction of a gathering system on operated lands. The capital program in Duvernay Energy Corporation is flexible and designed to be self-funded. The Company has a deep inventory of ~444 gross future drilling locations.
Free Cash Flow Focus: The Company forecasts consolidated Adjusted Funds Flow between $525 – $550 million¹, including $475 – $500 million from its Thermal Oil assets. Every +US$1/bbl move in West Texas Intermediate (“WTI”) and Western Canadian Select (“WCS”) heavy oil impacts annual Adjusted Funds Flow by ~$10 million and ~$17 million, respectively. The 2025 Thermal Oil capital program, including growth initiatives, is fully funded within cash flow down to ~US$48 WTI for the balance of the year. Duvernay Energy is independently funded through its balance sheet and cash flow.
Capital Allocation Discipline: Athabasca has demonstrated its business resiliency and prudent management through past commodity cycles. The Company is nimble with respect to its operating plans and has levers available to adjust to a volatile macro environment. Preserving a pristine balance sheet is paramount to the strategy.
Steadfast Focus on Cash Flow Per Share Growth: The Company forecasts ~20% compounded annual cash flow per share¹ growth between 2025 – 2029 driven by investing in attractive capital projects and prioritizing share buybacks with free cash flow.

Footnote: Refer to the “Reader Advisory” section within this news release for additional information on Non‐GAAP Financial Measures (e.g. Adjusted Funds Flow, Free Cash Flow, Net Cash, Liquidity) and production disclosure.

¹2025 pricing assumptions: US$70 WTI, US$12.50 WCS heavy differential, C$2 AECO, and 0.725 C$/US$ FX.

Annual Shareholders Meeting

Athabasca will be hosting its Annual General Meeting of Shareholders (“Meeting”) on Thursday, May 8, 2025 at 8:00 am (MT). The Meeting will be hosted virtually and shareholders and guests can listen via live webcast with details available at:

https://www.atha.com/investors/presentation-events.html

Financial and Operational Highlights

	Three months ended March 31,
($ Thousands, unless otherwise noted)	2025			2024
CORPORATE CONSOLIDATED⁽¹⁾
Petroleum and natural gas production (boe/d)⁽²⁾		37,714			33,470
Petroleum, natural gas and midstream sales	$	367,844		$	311,116
Operating Income⁽²⁾	$	145,590		$	105,135
Operating Income Net of Realized Hedging⁽²⁾⁽³⁾	$	143,947		$	106,580
Operating Netback ($/boe)⁽²⁾	$	44.07		$	35.78
Operating Netback Net of Realized Hedging ($/boe)⁽²⁾⁽³⁾	$	43.57		$	36.27
Capital expenditures	$	63,333		$	76,011
Cash flow from operating activities	$	123,353		$	76,638
per share – basic	$	0.24		$	0.14
Adjusted Funds Flow⁽²⁾	$	129,675		$	87,772
per share – basic	$	0.25		$	0.15
ATHABASCA (THERMAL OIL)
Bitumen production (bbl/d)⁽²⁾		34,742			31,536
Petroleum, natural gas and midstream sales	$	362,375		$	305,041
Operating Income⁽²⁾	$	135,316		$	100,449
Operating Netback ($/bbl)⁽²⁾	$	44.56		$	36.36
Capital expenditures	$	50,376		$	42,119
Adjusted Funds Flow⁽²⁾	$	121,353		$	83,713
Free Cash Flow⁽²⁾	$	70,977		$	41,594
DUVERNAY ENERGY⁽¹⁾
Petroleum and natural gas production (boe/d)⁽²⁾		2,972			1,934
Percentage Liquids (%)⁽²⁾	73		%	72		%
Petroleum, natural gas and midstream sales	$	17,619		$	11,538
Operating Income⁽²⁾	$	10,274		$	4,686
Operating Netback ($/boe)⁽²⁾	$	38.42		$	26.63
Capital expenditures	$	12,957		$	33,892
Adjusted Funds Flow⁽²⁾	$	8,322		$	4,059
Free Cash Flow⁽²⁾	$	(4,635	)	$	(29,833	)
NET INCOME AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
Net income and comprehensive income⁽⁴⁾	$	72,004		$	38,609
per share – basic⁽⁴⁾	$	0.14		$	0.07
per share – diluted⁽⁴⁾	$	0.14		$	0.07
COMMON SHARES OUTSTANDING
Weighted average shares outstanding – basic		514,257,036			567,076,940
Weighted average shares outstanding – diluted		519,227,432			577,106,504

	March 31,		December 31,
As at ($ Thousands)	2025		2024
LIQUIDITY AND BALANCE SHEET (CONSOLIDATED)
Cash and cash equivalents	$	304,538	$	344,836
Available credit facilities⁽⁵⁾	$	133,074	$	136,324
Face value of term debt	$	200,000	$	200,000

^{(1) Corporate Consolidated and Duvernay Energy reflect gross production and financial metrics before taking into consideration Athabasca’s 70% equity interest in Duvernay Energy.}
^{(2) Refer to the “Advisories and Other Guidance” section within this News Release for additional information on Non-GAAP Financial Measures and production disclosure.}
^{(3) Includes realized commodity risk management loss of $1.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025 (three months ended March 31, 2024 – gain of $1.4 million).}
^{(4) Net income and comprehensive income per share amounts are based on net income and comprehensive income attributable to shareholders of the Parent Company.}
^{(5) Includes available credit under Athabasca’s and Duvernay Energy’s Credit Facilities and Athabasca’s Unsecured Letter of Credit Facility.}

Athabasca (Thermal Oil) Q1 2025 Highlights and Operations Update

Production: First quarter production of 34,742 bbl/d (27,025 bbl/d at Leismer & 7,717 bbl/d at Hangingstone).
Cash Flow: Adjusted Funds Flow of $121.4 million; Operating Income of $135.3 million with an Operating Netback of $44.56/bbl ($46.24/bbl at Leismer & $38.43/bbl at Hangingstone).
Capital Program: $50.4 million of capital expenditures in Q1, with $43.7 million at Leismer as the Company advances the 40,000 bbl/d progressive growth project.
Free Cash Flow: $71.0 million of Free Cash Flow supporting 100% return of capital commitment.

Leismer

In Q1 2025, the Company brought six extended redrills on Pad L1 (1,000 – 1,700 meter laterals) on production supporting current production of ~28,000 bbl/d (April 2025). The redrills target bypass pay on legacy pads with initial production rates between 400 – 1,000 bbl/d per well. In 2024, the Company drilled an additional four well pairs on Pad L10 that will maintain production rates at facility capacity for the balance of 2025. Another six well pairs will be drilled in H2 2025.

Activity at Leismer remains focused on advancing progressive growth to 40,000 bbl/d by the end of 2027. The project cost is estimated at $300 million generating a capital efficiency of approximately $25,000/bbl/d. The $300 million will be spent between 2025 and 2027 and includes an estimated $190 million for facility capital and an estimated $110 million for growth wells. The project remains on budget and on schedule with the original sanction plans announced in July 2024. The progressive build provides flexibility with interim growth targets to ~32,000 bbl/d and ~35,000 bbl/d before achieving the regulatory approved 40,000 bbl/d capacity. This winter the Company completed regional infrastructure to Pad L10 and L11 including lease site construction, delineation drilling and pipeline looping. The project scope includes the installation of two new steam generators that were countercyclically acquired during a prior commodity down cycle.

Leismer is forecasted to remain pre-payout from a crown royalty perspective until late 2027¹.

Hangingstone

At Hangingstone two extended reach sustaining well pairs (~1,400 meter average laterals) drilled in 2024 were placed on production in March supporting current production of ~8,900 bbl/d (April 2025). These are the first wells drilled at the project since 2015. The new well pairs have ramped up faster than anticipated, benefiting from favorable reservoir temperatures and pressure supported by offsetting wells. Early performance has exceeded expectations with initial production rates of 800 – 1,000 bbl/d per well.

Hangingstone continues to deliver meaningful cash flow contributions to the Company and also has a pre-payout crown royalty structure beyond 2030¹.

Duvernay Energy Corporation Q1 2025 Highlights and Operations Update

Production: First quarter production of 2,972 boe/d (73% Liquids).
Cash Flow: Adjusted Funds Flow of $8.3 million with an Operating Netback of $38.42/boe.
Capital Program: $13.0 million of capital expenditures included spudding a 30% WI four-well pad and constructing a strategic gathering system.

Q1 activity included spudding a four well pad (30% working interest) with average laterals of ~5,000 meters and construction of strategic gathering system connecting its newly operated assets with the Company’s existing operated infrastructure on the joint venture acreage. Completion operations will be phased through the balance of the year with the four well pad (30% WI) expected to be completed in Q3 and three well pad (100% WI) in early Fall. The Company expects to exit the year at ~6,000 boe/d.

Production from wells drilled in 2024 continue to validate DEC’s type curve expectations. The five wells placed on production have averaged IP30’s of ~1,200 boe/d per well (86% Liquids) and IP90s of ~940 boe/d (86% Liquids) per well.

2025 capital is trending ~$10 million lower than original budget and is estimated at ~$75 million, reflecting disciplined execution. Duvernay Energy retains significant operational flexibility with no near-term land expiries and the ability to adjust spending in response to commodity price movements.

About Athabasca Oil Corporation

Athabasca Oil Corporation is a Canadian energy company with a focused strategy on the development of thermal and light oil assets. Situated in Alberta’s Western Canadian Sedimentary Basin, the Company has amassed a significant land base of extensive, high quality resources. Athabasca’s light oil assets are held in a private subsidiary (Duvernay Energy Corporation) in which Athabasca owns a 70% equity interest. Athabasca’s common shares trade on the TSX under the symbol “ATH”. For more information, visit www.atha.com.

For more information, please contact:
Matthew Taylor		Robert Broen
Chief Financial Officer		President and CEO
1-403-817-9104		1-403-817-9190
mtaylor@atha.com		rbroen@atha.com

Reader Advisory:

This News Release contains forward-looking information that involves various risks, uncertainties and other factors. All information other than statements of historical fact is forward-looking information. The use of any of the words “anticipate”, “plan”, “project”, “continue”, “maintain”, “may”, “estimate”, “expect”, “will”, “target”, “forecast”, “could”, “intend”, “potential”, “guidance”, “outlook” and similar expressions suggesting future outcome are intended to identify forward-looking information. The forward-looking information is not historical fact, but rather is based on the Company’s current plans, objectives, goals, strategies, estimates, assumptions and projections about the Company’s industry, business and future operating and financial results. This information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking information. No assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and such forward-looking information included in this News Release should not be unduly relied upon. This information speaks only as of the date of this News Release. In particular, this News Release contains forward-looking information pertaining to, but not limited to, the following: our strategic plans; the allocation of future capital; timing and quantum for shareholder returns including share buybacks; the terms of our NCIB program; our drilling plans and capital efficiencies; production growth to expected production rates and estimated sustaining capital amounts; timing of Leismer’s and Hangingstone’s pre-payout royalty status; applicability of tax pools; exemption from U.S. tariffs; Adjusted Funds Flow and Free Cash Flow over various periods; type well economic metrics; number of drilling locations; forecasted daily production and the composition of production; break-even metrics, our outlook in respect of the Company’s business environment, including in respect of commodity pricing; and other matters.

In addition, information and statements in this News Release relating to “Reserves” and “Resources” are deemed to be forward-looking information, as they involve the implied assessment, based on certain estimates and assumptions, that the reserves and resources described exist in the quantities predicted or estimated, and that the reserves and resources described can be profitably produced in the future. With respect to forward-looking information contained in this News Release, assumptions have been made regarding, among other things: commodity prices; the regulatory framework governing royalties, taxes and environmental matters in the jurisdictions in which the Company conducts and will conduct business and the effects that such regulatory framework will have on the Company, including on the Company’s financial condition and results of operations; the Company’s financial and operational flexibility; the Company’s financial sustainability; Athabasca’s cash flow break-even commodity price; the Company’s ability to obtain qualified staff and equipment in a timely and cost-efficient manner; the applicability of technologies for the recovery and production of the Company’s reserves and resources; future capital expenditures to be made by the Company; future sources of funding for the Company’s capital programs; the Company’s future debt levels; future production levels; the Company’s ability to obtain financing and/or enter into joint venture arrangements, on acceptable terms; operating costs; compliance of counterparties with the terms of contractual arrangements; impact of increasing competition globally; collection risk of outstanding accounts receivable from third parties; geological and engineering estimates in respect of the Company’s reserves and resources; recoverability of reserves and resources; the geography of the areas in which the Company is conducting exploration and development activities and the quality of its assets. Certain other assumptions related to the Company’s Reserves and Resources are contained in the report of McDaniel & Associates Consultants Ltd. (“McDaniel”) evaluating Athabasca’s Proved Reserves, Probable Reserves and Contingent Resources as at December 31, 2024 (which is respectively referred to herein as the “McDaniel Report”).

Actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in this forward-looking information as a result of the risk factors set forth in the Company’s Annual Information Form (“AIF”) dated March 5, 2025 available on SEDAR at www.sedarplus.ca, including, but not limited to: weakness in the oil and gas industry; exploration, development and production risks; prices, markets and marketing; market conditions; trade relations and tariffs; climate change and carbon pricing risk; statutes and regulations regarding the environment including deceptive marketing provisions; regulatory environment and changes in applicable law; gathering and processing facilities, pipeline systems and rail; reputation and public perception of the oil and gas sector; environment, social and governance goals; political uncertainty; state of capital markets; ability to finance capital requirements; access to capital and insurance; abandonment and reclamation costs; changing demand for oil and natural gas products; anticipated benefits of acquisitions and dispositions; royalty regimes; foreign exchange rates and interest rates; reserves; hedging; operational dependence; operating costs; project risks; supply chain disruption; financial assurances; diluent supply; third party credit risk; indigenous claims; reliance on key personnel and operators; income tax; cybersecurity; advanced technologies; hydraulic fracturing; liability management; seasonality and weather conditions; unexpected events; internal controls; limitations and insurance; litigation; natural gas overlying bitumen resources; competition; chain of title and expiration of licenses and leases; breaches of confidentiality; new industry related activities or new geographical areas; water use restrictions and/or limited access to water; relationship with Duvernay Energy Corporation; management estimates and assumptions; third-party claims; conflicts of interest; inflation and cost management; credit ratings; growth management; impact of pandemics; ability of investors resident in the United States to enforce civil remedies in Canada; and risks related to our debt and securities. All subsequent forward-looking information, whether written or oral, attributable to the Company or persons acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by these cautionary statements.

Also included in this News Release are estimates of Athabasca’s 2025 outlook which are based on the various assumptions as to production levels, commodity prices, currency exchange rates and other assumptions disclosed in this News Release. To the extent any such estimate constitutes a financial outlook, it was approved by management and the Board of Directors of Athabasca and is included to provide readers with an understanding of the Company’s outlook. Management does not have firm commitments for all of the costs, expenditures, prices or other financial assumptions used to prepare the financial outlook or assurance that such operating results will be achieved and, accordingly, the complete financial effects of all of those costs, expenditures, prices and operating results are not objectively determinable. The actual results of operations of the Company and the resulting financial results may vary from the amounts set forth herein, and such variations may be material. The outlook and forward-looking information contained in this New Release was made as of the date of this News release and the Company disclaims any intention or obligations to update or revise such outlook and/or forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless required pursuant to applicable law.

Oil and Gas Information

“BOEs” may be misleading, particularly if used in isolation. A BOE conversion ratio of six thousand cubic feet of natural gas to one barrel of oil equivalent (6 Mcf: 1 bbl) is based on an energy equivalency conversion method primarily applicable at the burner tip and does not represent a value equivalency at the wellhead. As the value ratio between natural gas and crude oil based on the current prices of natural gas and crude oil is significantly different from the energy equivalency of 6:1, utilizing a conversion on a 6:1 basis may be misleading as an indication of value.

Initial Production Rates

Test Results and Initial Production Rates: The well test results and initial production rates provided herein should be considered to be preliminary, except as otherwise indicated. Test results and initial production rates disclosed herein may not necessarily be indicative of long-term performance or of ultimate recovery.

Reserves Information

The McDaniel Report was prepared using the assumptions and methodology guidelines outlined in the COGE Handbook and in accordance with National Instrument 51-101 Standards of Disclosure for Oil and Gas Activities, effective December 31, 2024. There are numerous uncertainties inherent in estimating quantities of bitumen, light crude oil and medium crude oil, tight oil, conventional natural gas, shale gas and natural gas liquids reserves and the future cash flows attributed to such reserves. The reserve and associated cash flow information set forth above are estimates only. In general, estimates of economically recoverable reserves and the future net cash flows therefrom are based upon a number of variable factors and assumptions, such as historical production from the properties, production rates, ultimate reserve recovery, timing and amount of capital expenditures, marketability of oil and natural gas, royalty rates, the assumed effects of regulation by governmental agencies and future operating costs, all of which may vary materially. For those reasons, estimates of the economically recoverable reserves attributable to any particular group of properties, classification of such reserves based on risk of recovery and estimates of future net revenues associated with reserves prepared by different engineers, or by the same engineers at different times, may vary. The Company’s actual production, revenues, taxes and development and operating expenditures with respect to its reserves will vary from estimates thereof and such variations could be material. Reserves figures described herein have been rounded to the nearest MMbbl or MMboe. For additional information regarding the consolidated reserves and information concerning the resources of the Company as evaluated by McDaniel in the McDaniel Report, please refer to the Company’s AIF.

Reserve Values (i.e. Net Asset Value) is calculated using the estimated net present value of all future net revenue from our reserves, before income taxes discounted at 10%, as estimated by McDaniel effective December 31, 2024 and based on average pricing of McDaniel, Sproule and GLJ as of January 1, 2025.

The 444 gross Duvernay drilling locations referenced include: 87 proved undeveloped locations and 85 probable undeveloped locations for a total of 172 booked locations with the balance being unbooked locations. Proved undeveloped locations and probable undeveloped locations are booked and derived from the Company’s most recent independent reserves evaluation as prepared by McDaniel as of December 31, 2024 and account for drilling locations that have associated proved and/or probable reserves, as applicable. Unbooked locations are internal management estimates. Unbooked locations do not have attributed reserves or resources (including contingent or prospective). Unbooked locations have been identified by management as an estimation of Athabasca’s multi-year drilling activities expected to occur over the next two decades based on evaluation of applicable geologic, seismic, engineering, production and reserves information. There is no certainty that the Company will drill all unbooked drilling locations and if drilled there is no certainty that such locations will result in additional oil and gas reserves, resources or production. The drilling locations on which the Company will actually drill wells, including the number and timing thereof is ultimately dependent upon the availability of funding, commodity prices, provincial fiscal and royalty policies, costs, actual drilling results, additional reservoir information that is obtained and other factors.

Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures, and Production Disclosure

The “Corporate Consolidated Adjusted Funds Flow”, “Corporate Consolidated Adjusted Funds Flow per Share”, “Athabasca (Thermal Oil) Adjusted Funds Flow”, “Duvernay Energy Adjusted Funds Flow”, “Corporate Consolidated Free Cash Flow”, “Athabasca (Thermal Oil) Free Cash Flow”, “Duvernay Energy Free Cash Flow”, “Corporate Consolidated Operating Income”, “Corporate Consolidated Operating Income Net of Realized Hedging”, “Athabasca (Thermal Oil) Operating Income”, “Duvernay Energy Operating Income”, “Corporate Consolidated Operating Netback”, “Corporate Consolidated Operating Netback Net of Realized Hedging”, “Athabasca (Thermal Oil) Operating Netback”, “Duvernay Energy Operating Netback” and “Cash Transportation and Marketing Expense” financial measures contained in this News Release do not have standardized meanings which are prescribed by IFRS and they are considered to be non-GAAP financial measures or ratios. These measures may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers and should not be considered in isolation with measures that are prepared in accordance with IFRS. Net Cash and Liquidity are supplementary financial measures. The Leismer and Hangingstone operating results are supplementary financial measures that when aggregated, combine to the Athabasca (Thermal Oil) segment results.

Adjusted Funds Flow, Adjusted Funds Flow Per Share and Free Cash Flow

Adjusted Funds Flow and Free Cash Flow are non-GAAP financial measures and are not intended to represent cash flow from operating activities, net earnings or other measures of financial performance calculated in accordance with IFRS. The Adjusted Funds Flow and Free Cash Flow measures allow management and others to evaluate the Company’s ability to fund its capital programs and meet its ongoing financial obligations using cash flow internally generated from ongoing operating related activities. Adjusted Funds Flow per share is a non-GAAP financial ratio calculated as Adjusted Funds Flow divided by the applicable number of weighted average shares outstanding. Adjusted Funds Flow and Free Cash Flow are calculated as follows:

	Three months ended March 31, 2025
($ Thousands)	Athabasca (Thermal Oil)			Duvernay Energy⁽¹⁾			Corporate Consolidated⁽¹⁾
Cash flow from operating activities	$	113,427		$	9,926		$	123,353
Changes in non-cash working capital		7,230			(1,612	)		5,618
Settlement of provisions		696			8			704
ADJUSTED FUNDS FLOW		121,353			8,322			129,675
Capital expenditures		(50,376	)		(12,957	)		(63,333	)
FREE CASH FLOW	$	70,977		$	(4,635	)	$	66,342

^{(1) Duvernay Energy and Corporate Consolidated reflect gross financial metrics before taking into consideration Athabasca’s 70% equity interest in Duvernay Energy.}

	Three months ended March 31, 2024
($ Thousands)	Athabasca (Thermal Oil)			Duvernay Energy⁽¹⁾			Corporate Consolidated⁽¹⁾
Cash flow from operating activities	$	72,730		$	3,908		$	76,638
Changes in non-cash working capital		9,382			149			9,531
Settlement of provisions		1,601			2			1,603
ADJUSTED FUNDS FLOW		83,713			4,059			87,772
Capital expenditures		(42,119	)		(33,892	)		(76,011	)
FREE CASH FLOW	$	41,594		$	(29,833	)	$	11,761

^{(1) Duvernay Energy and Corporate Consolidated reflect gross financial metrics before taking into consideration Athabasca’s 70% equity interest in Duvernay Energy.}

Duvernay Energy Operating Income and Operating Netback

The non-GAAP measure Duvernay Energy Operating Income in this News Release is calculated by subtracting the Duvernay Energy royalties, operating expenses and transportation & marketing expenses from petroleum and natural gas sales which is the most directly comparable GAAP measure. The Duvernay Energy Operating Netback per boe is a non-GAAP financial ratio calculated by dividing the Duvernay Energy Operating Income by the Duvernay Energy production. The Duvernay Energy Operating Income and the Duvernay Energy Operating Netback measures allow management and others to evaluate the production results from the Company’s Duvernay Energy assets.

The Duvernay Energy Operating Income is calculated using the Duvernay Energy Segments GAAP results, as follows:

	Three months ended March 31,
($ Thousands, unless otherwise noted)	2025			2024
Petroleum and natural gas sales	$	17,619		$	11,538
Royalties		(2,761	)		(2,314	)
Operating expenses		(3,786	)		(3,640	)
Transportation and marketing		(798	)		(898	)
DUVERNAY ENERGY OPERATING INCOME⁽¹⁾	$	10,274		$	4,686

Athabasca (Thermal Oil) Operating Income and Operating Netback

The non-GAAP measure Athabasca (Thermal Oil) Operating Income in this News Release is calculated by subtracting the Athabasca (Thermal Oil) segments cost of diluent blending, royalties, operating expenses and cash transportation & marketing expenses from heavy oil (blended bitumen) and midstream sales which is the most directly comparable GAAP measure. The Athabasca (Thermal Oil) Operating Netback per bbl is a non-GAAP financial ratio calculated by dividing the respective projects Operating Income by its respective bitumen sales volumes. The Athabasca (Thermal Oil) Operating Income and the Athabasca (Thermal Oil) Operating Netback measures allow management and others to evaluate the production results from the Athabasca (Thermal Oil) assets.

The Athabasca (Thermal Oil) Operating Income is calculated using the Athabasca (Thermal Oil) Segments GAAP results, as follows:

	Three months ended March 31,
($ Thousands, unless otherwise noted)	2025			2024
Heavy oil (blended bitumen) and midstream sales	$	362,375		$	305,041
Cost of diluent		(152,132	)		(133,860	)
Total bitumen and midstream sales		210,243			171,181
Royalties		(15,964	)		(11,537	)
Operating expenses – non-energy		(24,887	)		(23,125	)
Operating expenses – energy		(13,507	)		(16,558	)
Transportation and marketing⁽¹⁾		(20,569	)		(19,512	)
ATHABASCA (THERMAL OIL) OPERATING INCOME⁽²⁾	$	135,316		$	100,449

^{(1) Transportation and marketing excludes non-cash costs of $0.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025 (three months ended March 31, 2024 – $0.6 million).}

Corporate Consolidated Operating Income and Corporate Consolidated Operating Income Net of Realized Hedging and Operating Netbacks

The non-GAAP measures of Corporate Consolidated Operating Income including or excluding realized hedging in this News Release are calculated by adding or subtracting realized gains (losses) on commodity risk management contracts (as applicable), royalties, the cost of diluent blending, operating expenses and cash transportation & marketing expenses from petroleum, natural gas and midstream sales which is the most directly comparable GAAP measure. The Corporate Consolidated Operating Netbacks including or excluding realized hedging per boe are non-GAAP ratios calculated by dividing Corporate Consolidated Operating Income including or excluding hedging by the total sales volumes and are presented on a per boe basis. The Corporate Consolidated Operating Income and Corporate Consolidated Operating Netbacks including or excluding realized hedging measures allow management and others to evaluate the production results from the Company’s Duvernay Energy and Athabasca (Thermal Oil) assets combined together including the impact of realized commodity risk management gains or losses (as applicable).

	Three months ended March 31,
($ Thousands, unless otherwise noted)	2025			2024
Petroleum, natural gas and midstream sales⁽¹⁾	$	379,994		$	316,579
Royalties		(18,725	)		(13,851	)
Cost of diluent⁽¹⁾		(152,132	)		(133,860	)
Operating expenses		(42,180	)		(43,323	)
Transportation and marketing⁽²⁾		(21,367	)		(20,410	)
Operating Income⁽³⁾		145,590			105,135
Realized gain (loss) on commodity risk mgmt. contracts		(1,643	)		1,445
OPERATING INCOME NET OF REALIZED HEDGING⁽³⁾	$	143,947		$	106,580

^{(1) Non-GAAP measure includes intercompany NGLs (i.e. condensate) sold by the Duvernay Energy segment to the Athabasca (Thermal Oil) segment for use as diluent that is eliminated on consolidation.}
^{(2) Transportation and marketing excludes non-cash costs of $0.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025 (three months ended March 31, 2024 – $0.6 million).}

Cash Transportation and Marketing Expense

The Cash Transportation and Marketing Expense financial measures contained in this News Release are calculated by subtracting the non-cash transportation and marketing expense as reported in the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows from the transportation and marketing expense as reported in the Consolidated Statement of Income (Loss) and are considered to be non-GAAP financial measures.

Net Cash

Net Cash is defined as the face value of term debt, plus accounts payable and accrued liabilities, plus current portion of provisions and other liabilities plus income tax payable less current assets, excluding risk management contracts.

Liquidity

Liquidity is defined as cash and cash equivalents plus available credit capacity.

Production volumes details

		Three months ended March 31,
Production		2025		2024
Duvernay Energy:
Oil and condensate NGLs⁽¹⁾	bbl/d		1,839		1,205
Other NGLs	bbl/d		326		180
Natural gas⁽²⁾	mcf/d		4,844		3,291
Total Duvernay Energy	boe/d		2,972		1,934
Total Thermal Oil bitumen	bbl/d		34,742		31,536
Total Company production	boe/d		37,714		33,470

^{(1) Comprised of 99% or greater of tight oil, with the remaining being light and medium crude oil.}
^{(2) Comprised of 99% or greater of shale gas, with the remaining being conventional natural gas.}

This News Release also makes reference to Athabasca’s forecasted average daily Thermal Oil production of 33,500 ‐ 35,500 bbl/d for 2025. Athabasca expects that 100% of that production will be comprised of bitumen. Duvernay Energy’s forecasted total average daily production of ~4,000 boe/d for 2025 is expected to be comprised of approximately 68% tight oil, 23% shale gas and 9% NGLs.

Liquids is defined as bitumen, light crude oil, medium crude oil and natural gas liquids.

Break Even is an operating metric that calculates the US$WTI oil price required to fund operating costs (Operating Break-even), sustaining capital (Sustaining Break-even), or growth capital (Total Capital) within Adjusted Funds Flow.

Footnote: Refer to the “Reader Advisory” section within this news release for additional information on Non‐GAAP Financial Measures (e.g. Adjusted Funds Flow, Free Cash Flow, Net Cash, Liquidity) and production disclosure.

¹ 2025 pricing assumptions: US$70 WTI, US$12.50 WCS heavy differential, C$2 AECO, and 0.725 C$/US$ FX.

The MIL Network –

May 8, 2025

MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Tech companies urged to join drive to cut crime
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Press release

Tech companies urged to join drive to cut crime

Top tech experts are meeting the Justice Secretary as part of a Government drive to use AI and technology to transform the justice system and cut crime.
New study shows tags monitoring curfews cut reoffending by 20%

Top tech experts assemble to address criminal justice challenges

Ambition to use technology to deliver safer streets as part of Plan for Change

Today around 30 companies including Microsoft, Amazon Web Services and Google will explore how revolutionary tech could be used to tackle violence in prison, better monitor offenders in the community and improve risk assessments of offenders.

The meeting comes as new research shows curfew tags, which keep offenders at home and off the streets during certain times, can reduce reoffending by 20 per cent. This demonstrates how even older technology is supporting punishment in the community and cutting crime.

The challenge now is to see how newer technology can contribute to help deliver the Government’s Plan for Change to make streets safer.

Today’s gathering will be chaired by James Timpson, the prison and probation minister, and opened by Lord Chancellor, Shabana Mahmood.

Lord Chancellor, Shabana Mahmood, said: 

We inherited a justice system in crisis, with prisons close to collapse and staff overburdened and under pressure.

We need bold ideas to address the challenges that we face – supporting our staff, delivering swifter justice for victims, and cutting crime.

Today, we have an analogue justice system in a digital age.

The UK has a world-leading and growing tech sector, and I know our tech firms have a huge role to play in delivering our Plan for Change to make streets safer.

The roundtable marks the first time key players in the UK’s tech ecosystem will meet with justice ministers to discuss some of the toughest challenges our courts, prisons and probation system face.

Discussion will focus on the potential for even more effective tracking of offender movement, using data to aid probation officers to perform better risk assessments and whether digital platforms can help offenders rehabilitate and integrate back into society, cutting reoffending.

It has been organised in partnership with techUK which is the trade association that brings together companies and organisations to promote digital technology.

techUK CEO, Julian David OBE said:

We’re honoured to be hosting this roundtable discussion with the Ministry of Justice – It presents an excellent opportunity for the tech sector to highlight the transformative role that technology is playing in modernising our criminal justice system.

techUK and our members believe that collaboration and open dialogue are essential to fostering innovation and driving meaningful reform – particularly in how offenders are rehabilitated – and that digital tools can be a powerful force in sustaining this positive impact across society.

Other companies attending include:

Allied Universal: an industry leader technology and service company for three decades

Cognizant Worldwide Limited: focuses on modernising technology, reimagining processes and transforming experiences

TPXimpact: a UK-based company focusing on digital transformation and creating positive change for people, places, and the planet

Microsoft Ltd. UK Public Sector General Manager, Amanda Sleight said:

We’re thrilled to be part of this groundbreaking initiative with the Ministry of Justice.

Microsoft is committed to advancing the ethical use of AI technology to reduce the administrative burden on prison and probation staff, allowing them more time to focus on delivering high-quality frontline services, reducing recidivism and helping integrate offenders back into society.

The aim is for a follow up to this meeting with an event open to the whole of industry to apply to come back and present their groundbreaking ideas and solutions in the coming months.

Earlier this year, the Lord Chancellor set out her vision for the Probation Service, which included a bold new £8 million pledge to introduce new technology to help risk assess offenders and cut back on admin, increasing focus on those offenders who pose the greatest risk to the public.

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Published 8 May 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
May 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Beyond Slim: Discover Unprecedented Innovation with Galaxy S25 Edge

Source: Samsung

Over the last decade, smartphones have undergone a remarkable transformation – becoming more powerful and intelligent than ever before. As the advent of mobile AI has raised the bar for what these devices can achieve, so has our expectation for peak performance. Integrating AI has fundamentally reshaped mobile experiences, turning smartphones from convenient tools into indispensable companions for connection, creativity and productivity. As our reliance on these devices grows, so do our expectations for them to be portable and lightweight without sacrificing power and innovation.
We’re constantly striving to understand our users’ evolving needs, innovating to bring them what they’re looking for. By pushing the boundaries of mobile technology, we’re going beyond what users expect and opening up new possibilities. The latest addition to the Galaxy S series is both a powerful AI companion and an engineering marvel, merging flagship-level performance with superior portability.

This is more than a slim smartphone. Every curve, contour and component reflects a breakthrough in precise engineering to create a premium experience worthy of the S series name. The Galaxy S25 Edge not only sets a new standard for what you can achieve with your smartphone, but it also unlocks a new era of growth for the mobile industry.
As the newest edition to the Galaxy S25 series, Galaxy S25 Edge embodies the ultimate camera experience – and takes it one step further with mobile AI that empowers users to reach new creative realms in every aspect of mobile photography, from capturing to editing and sharing. Even with its slim form, Galaxy S25 Edge’s 200MP wide lens continues Galaxy’s iconic camera experience, delivering pro-grade capabilities to intuitively capture the world around you. And thanks to Galaxy AI, the camera transforms into a smart lens that helps recognize what matters to create new memories.
Join us online on May 12 @ 8pm ET as we introduce the next evolution of Galaxy. Discover how Galaxy engineers built on years of innovation and visionary thinking shaped by you to reimagine everything you expect from a smartphone.

MIL OSI Economics –

May 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Chernyshenko congratulated radio workers on their professional holiday

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko congratulated workers in the fields of communications, radio engineering and radio journalism on Radio Day.

In his congratulatory message, the Deputy Prime Minister emphasized the historical significance of the invention of radio for the development of modern technologies and communications.

“Today is a professional holiday for everyone whose life and work is connected with radio. In 1895, the outstanding Russian physicist Alexander Popov created a wireless radio receiving and transmitting system. This became the basis for the development of navigation devices, mobile communications, wireless data exchange networks and the Internet, without which it is impossible to imagine our life,” said Dmitry Chernyshenko.

He noted that radio remains an important source of information and entertainment for millions of Russians.

“Tens of millions of Russian citizens remain loyal fans of radio. It serves as a source not only of entertainment and music content, but also of prompt reliable news. I would like to note that more than 3.5 thousand licenses for radio broadcasting have been issued in our country. The rapid development of the industry makes a significant contribution to achieving Russia’s technological leadership – a national goal set by President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin. Radio stations are mastering modern technologies, including artificial intelligence, and the digital platform for distributing online radio channels is strengthening its position,” said Dmitry Chernyshenko.

Last year, the Government supported more than 200 socially significant projects of electronic media. Of no small importance is the systematic training of highly qualified personnel for the industry.

In conclusion of his congratulations, Dmitry Chernyshenko wished the radio workers health, success and continuous growth of their audience.

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

MIL OSI Russia News –

May 8, 2025

MIL-OSI: Pieridae Releases Q1 2025 Financial and Operating Results

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWS WIRE SERVICES OR DISSEMINATION IN UNITED STATES

CALGARY, Alberta, May 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Pieridae Energy Limited (“Pieridae” or the “Company”) (TSX: PEA) announces the release of its first quarter 2025 financial and operating results. The Company produced 22,584 boe/d and generated Net Operating Income¹ (“NOI”) of $32.6 million during the first quarter of 2025. Management’s discussion and analysis (“MD&A”) and unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements and notes for the quarter ended March 31, 2025 are available at www.pieridaeenergy.com and on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

“Pieridae continues building momentum this quarter with strong financial results driven, in part, by proactive decision making from our management team,” said Darcy Reding, President and CEO. “During the first quarter, we restarted 1,800 boe/d of previously shut-in dry gas volumes in response to improvements in AECO natural gas prices. We also monetized a portion of our in-the-money 2026 and 2027 natural gas financial hedge position, generating proceeds of $10.2 million which we used to reduce debt, while increasing exposure of our 2026 and 2027 natural gas production to future market prices. Our team remains focused on key milestones and catalysts in 2025, highlighted by continued debt reduction, growth in our third-party gathering and processing business, and the December 31, 2025 expiration of a long-term fixed price sulphur marketing agreement.”

Q1 2025 HIGHLIGHTS

Generated NOI of $32.6 million ($0.11 per basic and fully diluted share).
Generated Funds Flow from Operations¹ of $21.7 million ($0.07 per basic and fully diluted share).
Incurred operating expenses of $44.0 million, down 15% from Q1 2024, reflecting both production shut-ins and the continued reduction of field and facility operating cost structure.
Produced 22,584 boe/d (78% natural gas), down 35% from Q1 2024 due to the voluntary shut-in of approximately 9,400 boe/d of uneconomic dry gas production from Q3 2024 through February 2025 and an unplanned outage at the Jumping Pound gas plant from late February to early April.
Completed additional routine maintenance during the Q1 Jumping Pound gas plant outage that permitted deferral of the plant’s scheduled 2026 maintenance turnaround by one year to 2027.
Restarted approximately 1,800 boe/d shut-in Northeast BC and Northern Alberta production, benefitting from stronger gas prices during Q1.
Increased third-party raw gas processing volumes to 81.8 MMcf/d, up 40% from Q1 2024 and highlighted by the Caroline gas plant’s 58.9 MMcf/d contribution, up 122% from Q1 2024.
Executed capital expenditure activity of $6.5 million, primarily on the Super Claus sulphur condenser repair at the Jumping Pound gas plant, along with well and facility optimization projects.
Completed a hedge monetization transaction in March 2025 for a portion of 2026 and 2027 natural gas contracts for net proceeds of $10.2 million and repaid a portion of the senior term loan.
Reduced Net Debt¹ to $185.4 million, a $12.1 million decrease from Q4 2024.
Proposed a name change to Cavvy Energy Ltd. in support of our corporate strategy, subject to shareholder approval at the Company’s Annual and Special Meeting of Shareholders on May 8, 2025.

________________

¹^{Refer to the “non-GAAP measures” section of the Company’s MD&A.}


	2025		2024								2023
($ 000s unless otherwise noted)	Q1		Q4		Q3		Q2		Q1		Q4		Q3		Q2
Production
Natural gas (Mcf/d)	105,338		111,787		115,196		157,077		175,356		174,211		155,763		159,427
Condensate (bbl/d)	2,454		2,149		2,191		2,472		2,781		2,384		2,020		2,300
NGLs (bbl/d)	2,574		1,788		1,726		2,210		2,613		1,921		2,273		2,216
Sulphur (tonne/d)	1,076		968		1,444		1,376		1,491		1,284		1,124		1,362
Total production (boe/d) ⁽¹⁾	22,584		22,568		23,116		30,861		34,620		33,340		30,253		31,087
Third-party volumes processed (Mcf/d raw) ⁽²⁾	81,777		71,497		66,518		52,410		58,423		67,350		57,363		51,973
Financial
Natural gas price ($/Mcf)
Realized before Risk Management Contracts ⁽³⁾	2.24		1.55		0.77		1.14		2.53		2.32		2.65		2.39
Realized after Risk Management Contracts ⁽³⁾	3.58		3.36		3.43		2.71		3.21		3.12		3.25		3.03
Benchmark natural gas price	2.14		1.46		0.68		1.17		2.48		2.29		2.59		2.40
Condensate price ($/bbl)
Realized before Risk Management Contracts ⁽³⁾	95.15		94.87		92.13		99.96		91.18		97.15		97.47		84.81
Realized after Risk Management Contracts ⁽³⁾	88.29		90.61		84.61		87.75		84.49		86.34		80.49		105.84
Benchmark condensate price ($/bbl)	100.24		98.85		97.10		105.62		98.43		104.30		106.30		93.25
Sulphur price ($/tonne)
Realized sulphur price ⁽⁴⁾	17.00		12.09		8.86		18.43		14.49		22.54		13.34		22.78
Benchmark sulphur price	246.36		180.54		128.47		103.19		94.84		118.29		107.09		114.92
Net income (loss)	2,666		(20,921	)	7,496		(19,196	)	(6,284	)	7,414		(16,254	)	4,182
Net income (loss) $ per share, basic	0.01		(0.08	)	0.04		(0.12	)	(0.04	)	0.05		(0.11	)	0.03
Net income (loss) $ per share, diluted	0.01		(0.08	)	0.04		(0.12	)	(0.04	)	0.03		(0.11	)	0.03
Net operating income ⁽⁵⁾	32,550		13,720		19,818		7,652		23,418		25,441		11,650		43,843
Cashflow provided by (used in) operating activities	22,612		(592	)	2,260		(1,555	)	7,049		31,983		7,577		27,533
Funds flow from operations ⁽⁵⁾	21,707		2,824		8,234		(4,874	)	12,044		14,269		(1,422	)	35,432
Total assets	571,470		612,423		615,040		585,940		590,531		638,541		564,921		575,849
Adjusted working capital deficit ⁽⁵⁾	(30,540	)	(29,777	)	(42,658	)	(37,986	)	(31,671	)	(31,830	)	(21,454	)	(6,258	)
Net debt ⁽⁵⁾	(185,438	)	(197,564	)	(206,779	)	(219,204	)	(209,964	)	(204,046	)	(205,536	)	(181,670	)
Capital expenditures ⁽⁶⁾	6,538		5,800		10,002		5,003		4,897		9,306		16,363		9,384
_{(1) Total production excludes sulphur.}
_{(2) Third-party volumes processed are raw natural gas volumes reported by activity month, which do not include accounting accruals.}
_{(3) Includes physical commodity and financial risk management contracts inclusive of cash flow hedges, (together “Risk Management Contracts”). The realized natural gas price after Risk Management Contracts shown above is normalized to exclude the impact of the hedge monetization.}
_{(4) Realized sulphur price is net of customary deductions such as transportation, market and storage fees.}
_{(5) Refer to the “Net Operating Income”, “Capital Resources”, “Funds Flow from Operations” and “Working Capital and Capital Strategy” sections of the Company’s MD&A for reference to non-GAAP measures.}
_{(6) Excludes reclamation and abandonment activities.}

OUTLOOK

Pieridae’s priority remains strengthening our balance sheet while safely sustaining production, increasing the utilization of the Company’s gas processing facilities by attracting incremental third-party volumes, implementing cost reduction initiatives, optimizing infrastructure, and executing non-core asset dispositions to maintain profitability during all periods of the commodity cycle.

The Company’s 2025 guidance remains unchanged as follows:

	2025 Guidance
($ 000s unless otherwise noted)	Low	High
Total production (boe/d) ⁽¹⁾	23,000	25,000
Net operating income ^(2)(4)(5)	75,000	95,000
Operating netback ($/boe) ^(3)(4)(5)	9.00	11.00
Capital expenditures	25,000	30,000
_{(1) 2025 production guidance assumes persistence of previously announced shut-ins in Central AB through 2025}
_{(2) Refer to the “Net Operating Income” section of the Company’s MD&A for reference to non-GAAP measures.}
_{(3) Refer to “Operating Netback” section of the Company’s MD&A for reference to non-GAAP measures.}
_{(4) Assumes unhedged average 2025 AECO price of $2.45/GJ and average 2025 WTI price of US$ 63.97/bbl.}
_{(5) Accounts for impact of hedge contracts in place at May 7, 2025.}

Specific priorities for 2025 remain:

Sustain a safe and regulatory compliant business
Minimize facility outages to maximize sales and processing revenue
Further grow the third-party gathering and processing business at our operated facilities
Meaningfully reduce operating expenses to improve corporate netback
Deliver attractive ROI on value adding optimization projects included in the 2025 capital program
Reduce long term debt to improve financial flexibility

During the second and third quarters of 2024, several low margin, dry gas properties in Northern AB, Northeast BC, and Central AB, all producing to non-operated facilities, were shut-in due to low AECO natural gas prices and high variable operating costs. Since these decisions were made, AECO pricing has improved. As a result, approximately 1,000 boe/d of production in Northern AB and 800 boe/d of production in Northeast BC was re-started in February and March 2025, respectively, but may be shut-in once again if sustained AECO pricing does not justify ongoing production. Currently, shut-in production in Central AB representing approximately 8,000 boe/d, or 24% of the Company’s production capability, is expected to remain shut-in throughout 2025, which is reflected in the 2025 production guidance of 23,000 to 25,000 boe/d.

An ongoing strategic priority is to continue to grow third-party gathering and processing revenues at our operated facilities. Management believes there is strong upside potential for cash flow growth from the third-party gathering and processing business, particularly in the Caroline region where the Company has increased raw third-party volumes by 122% over the last four quarters as area producers continue to bring on new production.

The Company has 110,000 GJ/d of its 2025 natural gas production hedged at a weighted average fixed price of $3.32/GJ, and 1,679 bbl/d of its 2025 condensate production hedged with a weighted average floor price of CAD$84.42/bbl and a weighted average ceiling price of CAD$92.32/bbl. The Company’s aggregate hedge position for 2025 totals 19,055 boe/d, or approximately 80% of the above production guidance range.

Pieridae’s legacy fixed price sulphur contract, which was entered into in 2019, expires on December 31, 2025. Under this contract, the Company receives a net fixed price of approximately $6/tonne for the majority of its sulphur production capability of approximately 1,400 tonnes per day. Beginning January 1, 2026, the Company will receive market price for all sulphur production, less normal deductions for transportation, handling, and marketing, representing a significant potential revenue opportunity. As of May 7, 2025, the spot west coast sulphur price was approximately US$270/tonne, prior to royalties, transportation and marketing costs.

The $25.0 to $30.0 million 2025 capital guidance includes approximately $10.0 million of high-impact well and facility optimization expenditures funded with the equity raised during Q4 2024. These high return, short payout capital projects are expected to increase sales revenue, improve facility efficiency, reduce operating cost and fuel gas consumption, and lower GHG compliance costs. Spending on this program commenced in Q4 2024 and will continue throughout 2025. The remainder of the 2025 capital program is focused on routine capital maintenance, field operating technology upgrades, and site closure / decommissioning expenditures in Alberta and BC. Notably, Pieridae has not scheduled major maintenance turnaround activity at any of the Company’s deep-cut, sour gas processing facilities during 2025 given the successful completion of gas plant turnarounds and other maintenance projects in 2023, 2024 and Q1 2025. The next major maintenance turnaround is scheduled for 2026.

Due to the current outlook for North American natural gas prices, Pieridae is not planning to resume drilling operations in 2025. The Company will only exploit its portfolio of high impact conventional Foothills drilling opportunities once natural gas prices sustainably recover and the Company has achieved its deleveraging target.

HEDGE POSITION

Pieridae hedges to mitigate commodity price, interest rate and foreign exchange volatility to protect the cash flow required to fund the Company’s operations, capital requirements and debt service obligations, while allowing the Company to participate in future commodity price upside. Pieridae continues to execute its risk management program governed by its hedge policy and in compliance with the thresholds required by senior secured lenders. As of March 31, 2025, the Company is hedged in accordance with the requirements of the senior loan agreement. The discounted unrealized gain on the Company’s hedge portfolio at May 7, 2025 was approximately $39.8 million using the forward strip on May 7, 2025.

The tables below summarize Pieridae’s hedge portfolio for natural gas, condensate (“C5⁺”) and power as of May 7, 2025:

2025-2026 Hedge Portfolio⁽¹⁾	Q125	Q225	Q325	Q425	2025	Q126	Q226	Q326	Q426	2026
AECO Natural Gas Sales
Total Hedged (GJ/d)	110,000	110,000	110,000	110,000	110,000	78,502	71,855	58,340	55,025	65,845
Avg Hedge Price (C$/GJ)	$3.32	$3.32	$3.32	$3.32	$3.32	$3.32	$3.34	$3.39	$3.40	$3.36
WTI / C5⁺Sales
Total Hedged (bbl/d)	1,721	1,692	1,663	1,641	1,679	1,622	1,529	1,364	1,350	1,465
Avg Collar Cap Price (C$/bbl)	$92.73	$92.45	$92.03	$92.05	$92.32	$91.69	$90.94	$91.67	$91.68	$91.48
Avg Collar Floor Price (C$/bbl)	$84.14	$84.25	$84.61	$84.67	$84.42	$84.09	$83.83	$85.64	$85.70	$84.82
Power Purchases
Total Hedged (MW)	55	55	55	55	55	45	45	45	45	45
Avg Hedge Price (C$/MWh)	$79.22	$79.10	$79.07	$79.08	$79.12	$75.87	$75.88	$75.88	$75.88	$75.88

2027-2028 Hedge Portfolio⁽¹⁾	Q127	Q227	Q327	Q427	2027	Q128	Q228	Q328	Q428	2028
AECO Natural Gas Sales
Total Hedged (GJ/d)	53,340	28,154	–	–	20,172	–	–	–	–	–
Avg Hedge Price (C$/GJ)	$3.40	$3.40			$3.40					–
WTI / C5⁺Sales
Total Hedged (bbl/d)	1,171	1,151	1,125	1,125	1,143	785	750	–	–	382
Avg Collar Cap Price (C$/bbl)	$91.40	$88.80	$90.05	$90.05	$90.08	$90.40	$86.50	–	–	$88.50
Avg Collar Floor Price (C$/bbl)	$84.37	$84.08	$90.05	$90.05	$87.14	$90.40	$86.50	–	–	$88.49
Power Purchases
Total Hedged (MW)	25	25	25	25	25					–
Avg Hedge Price (C$/MWh)	$70.19	$70.19	$70.19	$70.19	$70.19					–
_{(1) Includes forward physical sales contracts and financial derivative contracts as of May 7, 2025}

CONFERENCE CALL DETAILS

A conference call and webcast to discuss the results will be held on Thursday, May 8, 2025, at 1:30 p.m. MDT / 3:30 p.m. EDT, following the formal business conducted at the Annual General and Special Meeting of Shareholders. To participate in the webcast or conference call, you are asked to register using one of the links provided below.

To register to participate via webcast please follow this link:

https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/xk53vcfn

Alternatively, to register to participate by telephone please follow this link:

https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BIf4a11631ac334142b7d1671fbf810fbb

A replay of the webcast will be available two hours after the conclusion of the event and may be accessed using the webcast link above.

ABOUT PIERIDAE

Pieridae is a Canadian energy company headquartered in Calgary, Alberta. The Company is a significant upstream producer and midstream custom processor of natural gas, NGLs, condensate, and sulphur from western Canada. Pieridae’s vision is to provide responsible, affordable natural gas and derived products to meet society’s energy security needs. Pieridae’s common shares trade on the TSX under the symbol “PEA”.

For further information, visit www.pieridaeenergy.com, or please contact:

Darcy Reding, President & Chief Executive Officer	Adam Gray, Chief Financial Officer
Telephone: (403) 261-5900	Telephone: (403) 261-5900

Investor Relations
investors@pieridaeenergy.com

Forward-Looking Statements
Certain of the statements contained herein including, without limitation, management plans and assessments of future plans and operations, Pieridae’s outlook, strategy and vision, intentions with respect to future acquisitions, dispositions and other opportunities, including exploration and development activities, Pieridae’s ability to market its assets, plans and timing for development of undeveloped and probable resources, Pieridae’s goals with respect to the environment, relations with Indigenous people and promoting equity, diversity and inclusion, estimated abandonment and reclamation costs, plans regarding hedging, plans regarding the payment of dividends, wells to be drilled, the weighting of commodity expenses, expected production and performance of oil and natural gas properties, results and timing of projects, access to adequate pipeline capacity and third-party infrastructure, growth expectations, supply and demand for oil, natural gas liquids and natural gas, industry conditions, government regulations and regimes, capital expenditures and the nature of capital expenditures and the timing and method of financing thereof, may constitute “forward-looking statements” or “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws (collectively “forward-looking statements”). Words such as “may”, “will”, “should”, “could”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “expect”, “intend”, “plan”, “continue”, “focus”, “endeavor”, “commit”, “shall”, “propose”, “might”, “project”, “predict”, “vision”, “opportunity”, “strategy”, “objective”, “potential”, “forecast”, “estimate”, “goal”, “target”, “growth”, “future”, and similar expressions may be used to identify these forward-looking statements. These statements reflect management’s current beliefs and are based on information currently available to management.

Forward-looking statements involve significant risk and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements including, but not limited to, the risks associated with oil and gas exploration, development, exploitation, production, processing, marketing and transportation, loss of markets, volatility of commodity prices, currency fluctuations, imprecision of resources estimates, environmental risks, competition from other producers, incorrect assessment of the value of acquisitions, failure to realize the anticipated benefits of acquisitions, delays resulting from or inability to obtain required regulatory approvals, ability to access sufficient capital from internal and external sources and the risk factors outlined under “Risk Factors” and elsewhere herein. The recovery and resources estimate of Pieridae’s reserves provided herein are estimates only and there is no guarantee that the estimated resources will be recovered. As a consequence, actual results may differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements.

Forward-looking statements are based on a number of factors and assumptions which have been used to develop such forward-looking statements, but which may prove to be incorrect. Although Pieridae believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements because Pieridae can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. In addition to other factors and assumptions which may be identified in this document, assumptions have been made regarding, among other things: the impact of increasing competition; the general stability of the economic and political environment in which Pieridae operates; the timely receipt of any required regulatory approvals; the ability of Pieridae to obtain and retain qualified staff, equipment and services in a timely and cost efficient manner; the ability of the operator of the projects which Pieridae has an interest in to operate the field in a safe, efficient and effective manner; the ability of Pieridae to obtain financing on acceptable terms; the ability to replace and expand oil and natural gas resources through acquisition, development and exploration; the timing and costs of pipeline, storage and facility construction and expansion and the ability of Pieridae to secure adequate product transportation; future oil and natural gas prices; currency, exchange and interest rates; the regulatory framework regarding royalties, taxes and environmental matters in the jurisdictions in which Pieridae operates; timing and amount of capital expenditures; future sources of funding; production levels; weather conditions; success of exploration and development activities; access to gathering, processing and pipeline systems; advancing technologies; and the ability of Pieridae to successfully market its oil and natural gas products.

Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. Additional information on these and other factors that could affect Pieridae’s operations and financial results are included in reports on file with Canadian securities regulatory authorities and may be accessed through the SEDAR+ website (www.sedarplus.ca), and at Pieridae’s website (www.pieridaeenergy.com).

Although the forward-looking statements contained herein are based upon what management believes to be reasonable assumptions, management cannot assure that actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. Investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and Pieridae assumes no obligation to update or review them to reflect new events or circumstances except as required by applicable securities laws.

Forward-looking statements contained herein concerning the oil and gas industry and Pieridae’s general expectations concerning this industry are based on estimates prepared by management using data from publicly available industry sources as well as from reserve reports, market research and industry analysis and on assumptions based on data and knowledge of this industry which Pieridae believes to be reasonable. However, this data is inherently imprecise, although generally indicative of relative market positions, market shares and performance characteristics. While Pieridae is not aware of any misstatements regarding any industry data presented herein, the industry involves risks and uncertainties and is subject to change based on various factors.

Additional Reader Advisories
Barrels of oil equivalent (“boe”) may be misleading, particularly if used in isolation. A boe conversion ratio of 6 Mcf: 1 boe is based on an energy equivalency conversion method primarily applicable at the burner tip and does not represent a value equivalency at the wellhead.

Abbreviations

Natural Gas		Liquids
Mcf	thousand cubic feet	bbl/d	barrels per day
Mcf/d	thousand cubic feet per day	boe/d	barrels of oil equivalent per day
MMcf/d	million cubic feet per day	WTI	West Texas Intermediate
AECO	Alberta benchmark price for natural gas	Mbbl	Thousand barrels
GJ	Gigajoule	MMbbl	Million barrels
Power		MMboe	Million barrels of oil equivalent
MW	Megawatt	C2	Ethane
MWh	Megawatt hour	C3	Propane
		C4	Butane
		C5/C5+	Condensate / Pentane

Neither TSX nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release

The MIL Network –

May 8, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: Ricketts Statement on Trump Administration’s Plan to Rescind Biden AI Diffusion Rule

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Pete Ricketts (Nebraska)

May 7, 2025

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) released the following statement after it was announced that the Trump administration plans to rescind the Biden administration’s AI Diffusion rule (AIDR):
“I am pleased to hear that the Trump administration plans to rescind Biden’s AI Diffusion rule. I look forward to working with the administration to propose a new rule that grows America’s AI leadership and promotes partnership with our friends and allies. We must prevent Communist China from capturing the world market and taking the lead on this technology. We must also make America the world capital of AI.”
Ricketts recently led a letter to Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick regarding the need to withdraw this rule before the May 15th compliance deadline.

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MIL OSI USA News –

May 8, 2025
MIL-OSI: Oportun Announces Continued Board Evolution

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

SAN CARLOS, Calif., May 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Oportun (Nasdaq: OPRT), a mission-driven financial services company, today announced that its Board of Directors will nominate Carlos Minetti and Raul Vazquez for election at the Company’s 2025 Annual Meeting of Shareholders (the “Annual Meeting”). Scott Parker and R. Neil Williams will not stand for reelection at the Annual Meeting, and the Board will be reduced from ten to eight members at that time. If the Board’s recommended candidates are elected, three of the Board’s seven independent directors will have joined the Board within eighteen months of the Annual Meeting. Following the conclusion of Mr. Williams’ tenure on the Board, the Board will select a new Lead Independent Director.

“The Board has thoughtfully repositioned Oportun for continued success. As part of that process, we took a comprehensive look at how to maintain the Board’s strength and independence, as well as its diversity of experience and expertise,” said Mr. Williams. “After benchmarking against industry peers and corporate governance best practices, and considering the perspectives of our shareholders, we recognized that a smaller Board would be both more conventional and efficient. I have full confidence the Board will continue to provide effective guidance and hold management accountable as the Company executes its strategic initiatives.”

“On behalf of the Board, I’d like to thank Scott and Neil for their service and contributions to the Company. We wish them all the best in their future endeavors,” said Ginny Lee, Chair of the Nominating, Governance and Social Responsibility Committee. “Looking ahead, we remain focused on vigorous and independent oversight of the Company’s strategy and execution, with a goal of driving improved operating performance and delivering enhanced shareholder value.”

About Oportun

Oportun (Nasdaq: OPRT) is a mission-driven financial services company that puts its members’ financial goals within reach. With intelligent borrowing, savings, and budgeting capabilities, Oportun empowers members with the confidence to build a better financial future. Since inception, Oportun has provided more than $19.7 billion in responsible and affordable credit, saved its members more than $2.4 billion in interest and fees, and helped its members save an average of more than $1,800 annually. For more information, visit Oportun.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to the safe harbor provisions under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All statements other than statements of historical fact contained in this press release, including statements as to our future performance and financial position, are forward-looking statements. These statements can be generally identified by terms such as “expect,” “plan,” “goal,” “target,” “anticipate,” “assume,” “predict,” “project,” “outlook,” “continue,” “due,” “may,” “believe,” “seek,” or “estimate” and similar expressions or the negative versions of these words or comparable words, as well as future or conditional verbs such as “will,” “should,” “would,” “likely” and “could.” These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors that may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. We have based these forward-looking statements on our current expectations and projections about future events, financial trends and risks and uncertainties that we believe may affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. These risks and uncertainties include those risks described in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including our most recent annual report on Form 10-K. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made and, except to the extent required by federal securities laws, we disclaim any obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date on which the statement is made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. In light of these risks and uncertainties, there is no assurance that the events or results suggested by the forward-looking statements will in fact occur, and you should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements.

Additional Information and Where to Find It

Oportun Financial Corporation (“Oportun”), its directors and certain executive officers are participants in the solicitation of proxies from stockholders in connection with Oportun’s 2025 Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the “Annual Meeting”). Oportun plans to file a proxy statement (the “2025 Proxy Statement”) with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) in connection with the solicitation of proxies for the Annual Meeting.

Jo Ann Barefoot, Mohit Daswani, Ginny Lee, Carlos Minetti, Louis Miramontes, Scott Parker, Sandra A. Smith, Richard Tambor, Raul Vazquez and R. Neil Williams, all of whom are members of Oportun’s board of directors, are participants in Oportun’s solicitation. Additional information regarding such participants, including their direct or indirect interests, by security holdings or otherwise, will be included in the 2025 Proxy Statement and other relevant documents to be filed with the SEC in connection with the Annual Meeting. Information relating to the foregoing can also be found in Oportun’s definitive proxy statement for its 2024 Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the “2024 Proxy Statement”), which was filed with the SEC on May 13, 2024, and is available here. Particular attention is directed to the sections of the 2024 Proxy Statement captioned “Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance,” “Non-Employee Director Compensation,” “Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters,” “Executive Compensation” and “Certain Relationships and Related Transactions.” To the extent that holdings of such participants in Oportun’s securities have changed since the amounts printed in the 2024 Proxy Statement, such changes have been reflected on the following filings: for Ms. Barefoot, on June 28, 2024; for Mr. Daswani, on June 28, 2024 and December 13, 2024; for Ms. Lee, on June 28, 2024; for Mr. Minetti, on June 28, 2024 and December 13, 2024; for Mr. Miramontes, on June 28, 2024; for Mr. Parker, on April 25, 2024, June 18, 2024, and June 28, 2024; for Ms. Smith, on June 28, 2024; for Mr. Tambor, on June 28, 2024 and June 28, 2024; for Mr. Vazquez, on June 18, 2024, September 12, 2024, December 2, 2024, March 12, 2025, and April 4, 2025; and for Mr. Williams, on June 28, 2024 and December 11, 2024.

Promptly after filing its definitive 2025 Proxy Statement with the SEC, Oportun will mail the definitive 2025 Proxy Statement and a GREEN proxy card to each stockholder entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting. STOCKHOLDERS ARE URGED TO READ THE 2025 PROXY STATEMENT (INCLUDING ANY AMENDMENTS OR SUPPLEMENTS THERETO) AND ANY OTHER RELEVANT DOCUMENTS THAT OPORTUN WILL FILE WITH THE SEC WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION. Stockholders may obtain, free of charge, Oportun’s proxy statement (in both preliminary and definitive form), any amendments or supplements thereto, and any other relevant documents filed by Oportun with the SEC in connection with the Annual Meeting at the SEC’s website, which is located here. Copies of Oportun’s definitive 2025 Proxy Statement, any amendments or supplements thereto, and any other relevant documents filed by Oportun with the SEC in connection with the Annual Meeting will also be available, free of charge, at Oportun’s website, which is located here, or by writing to Investor Relations, Oportun Financial Corporation, 2 Circle Star Way, San Carlos, CA 94070. In addition, copies of these materials may be requested, free of charge, from Oportun’s proxy solicitor, Innisfree M&A Incorporated, by calling toll-free to (877) 800-5195.

Investor Contact
Dorian Hare
(650) 590-4323
ir@oportun.com

Innisfree M&A Incorporated
Scott Winter / Gabrielle Wolf / Jonathan Kovacs
(212) 750-5833

Media Contact
John Christiansen / Bryan Locke
FGS Global
Oportun@fgsglobal.com

The MIL Network –

May 8, 2025

MIL-OSI: Sprott Inc. Announces Results of its Annual Meeting of Shareholders

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

TORONTO, May 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Sprott Inc. (“Sprott”) (NYSE/TSX: SII) announced today the results of its Annual Meeting of shareholders held on May 7, 2025 (the “Meeting”). Sprott is pleased to announce that all resolutions put forward in the Management Information Circular dated March 18, 2025 (the “Circular”) to its shareholders were approved.

Results of the matters voted on at the Meeting are set out below.

Election of Directors

Sprott’s seven (7) director nominees were elected:

Nominee	Votes For (percent)	Votes Withheld (percent)
Ronald Dewhurst	94.957%	5.043%
Graham Birch	99.529%	0.471%
Barbara Connolly Keady	97.844%	2.156%
Dinaz Dadyburjor	98.813%	1.187%
Whitney George	98.876%	1.124%
Judith O’Connell	94.926%	5.074%
Catherine Raw	95.496%	4.504%

Appointment of Auditors

KPMG LLP, Chartered Accountants, was re-appointed as auditor of Sprott and the board of directors of Sprott was authorized to fix the auditors’ remuneration and terms of engagement.

Votes For (percent): 98.600%

Votes Withheld (percent): 1.400%

For further details on each of the above matters, please refer to the Circular available under Sprott’s profile on the System for Electronic Document Analysis and Retrieval (SEDAR+) at www.sedarplus.com.

Final voting results on all matters voted on at the Meeting will be filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com.

About Sprott

Sprott is a global asset manager focused on precious metals and critical materials investments. We are specialists. We believe our in-depth knowledge, experience and relationships separate us from the generalists. Our investment strategies include Exchange Listed Products, Managed Equities and Private Strategies. Sprott has offices in Toronto, New York, Connecticut and California and the company’s common shares are listed on the New York Stock Exchange and the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol (SII). For more information, please visit www.sprott.com.

Investor contact information:

Glen Williams
Senior Managing Partner
Investor and Institutional Client Relations
(416) 943-4394
gwilliams@sprott.com

The MIL Network –

May 8, 2025

MIL-OSI: Altus Group Announces Voting Results of 2025 Annual General Meeting of Shareholders

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

TORONTO, May 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Altus Group Limited (ʺAltus Group” or “the Company”) (TSX: AIF), a leading provider of commercial real estate intelligence, released today final voting results from its annual general meeting of shareholders (the “Meeting”) held virtually earlier today. A total of 39,662,907 common shares were represented at the Meeting, representing 87.84% of the 45,154,806 Common Shares of the Company as at the record date on March 26, 2025.

Each of the nominees proposed for election as a director as listed in the Company’s Management Information Circular dated March 26, 2025, was elected by a majority of votes to serve until the next annual meeting or until a successor is elected or appointed, as detailed below:

Name of Nominee	Votes For	%	Votes Withheld	%
Wai-Fong Au	39,098,051	99.14	340,078	0.86
Will Brennan	39,386,226	99.87	51,903	0.13
Angela L. Brown	38,462,331	97.53	975,798	2.47
Colin J. Dyer	38,200,152	96.86	1,237,977	3.14
Michael J. Gordon	39,313,842	99.68	124,287	0.32
James V. Hannon	39,317,393	99.69	120,736	0.31
Anthony W. Long	38,655,371	98.02	782,758	1.98
Raymond Mikulich	38,406,803	97.38	1,031,326	2.62
Carolyn M. Schuetz	39,218,970	99.44	219,159	0.56
Thomas W. Warsop, III	39,156,178	99.29	281,951	0.71
Janet P. Woodruff	38,173,037	96.79	1,265,092	3.21

The motion with respect to the appointment of the Company’s auditor, Ernst & Young LLP, was approved by a majority of votes. A total of 39,564,401 (99.77%) votes were cast in favour, with 89,234 (0.23%) votes withheld.

The advisory vote on approach to executive compensation was supported by a majority of votes, with a total of 38,395,561 (97.36%) votes cast in favour, and 1,042,568 (2.64%) votes against.

A replay of the Meeting is available through a webcast posted on Altus Group’s website, www.altusgroup.com, under the Company section.

About Altus Group

Altus connects data, analytics, and expertise to deliver the intelligence necessary to drive optimal CRE performance. The industry’s top leaders rely on our market-leading solutions and expertise to power performance and mitigate risk. Our global team of ~2,000 experts are making a lasting impact on an industry undergoing unprecedented change – helping shape the cities where we live, work, and build thriving communities. For more information about Altus (TSX: AIF) please visit www.altusgroup.com.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:

Martin Miasko
Sr. Director, Investor Relations and Strategy, Altus Group
(416) 204-5136
martin.miasko@altusgroup.com

The MIL Network –

May 8, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: Durbin, Duckworth, Klobuchar Raise Privacy Concerns About New DOGE Scrutiny of Farmer Finances With USDA Loans

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
May 07, 2025
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), a member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) joined U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) in pressing the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for more information about reports that farm loans and loan guarantees must be inspected and cleared by Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) employees.
“We write to express concern about a reported memorandum from the Farm Service Agency (FSA) to require certain farm loans and loan guarantees to be cleared through Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) employees,” wrote the Senators.
“In addition to raising privacy questions, this change could create delays in FSA loans for qualified borrowers,” the Senators continued. “At a time when financial uncertainty is rising for America’s families and farmers, creating more red tape for customers who often have no other options for credit could prevent farmers from getting crops in the ground, animals fed, or cause a beginning farmer to miss out on the purchase of their first parcel of land.”
Along with Durbin, Duckworth, and Klobuchar, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR), Mark Warner (D-VA), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Angus King (I-ME), Tina Smith (D-MN), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), John Fetterman (D-PA), Adam Schiff (D-CA), and Elissa Slotkin (D-MI).
The full letter is available here and below:
May 6, 2025
Dear Secretary Rollins,
We write to express concern about a reported memorandum from the Farm Service Agency (FSA) to require certain farm loans and loan guarantees to be cleared through Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) employees. In addition to raising privacy questions, this change could create delays in FSA loans for qualified borrowers. At a time when financial uncertainty is rising for America’s families and farmers, creating more red tape for customers who often have no other options for credit could prevent farmers from getting crops in the ground, animals fed, or cause a beginning farmer to miss out on the purchase of their first parcel of land.
The April 29, 2025 memo reportedly requires that farm loans and loan guarantees exceeding $500,000 as well as any loans or guarantees to “formal entities” such as an LLC must be “reviewed and cleared” not only by the USDA Chief Financial Officer (CFO) but also by DOGE employees. Because most farming operations are structured as some type of entity, this requirement could impact a large number of loans and loan guarantees.
USDA’s Farm Service Agency has recently made improvements to farm loan program procedures to create more efficiency, cut red tape, and streamline application processes to ease the burden on farmers. The Agency has simplified the direct farm loan application to reduce paperwork from 29 pages to 13 pages and implemented a “fast track” expedited review process for farm loan applications. We are concerned this new review could undermine the improvements made by USDA to reduce delays for applicants.
We request answers to the following questions by May 13th, 2025.
Please provide a copy of the memo directing this new policy and any supporting guidance provided to USDA employees.
What is the purpose and the legal basis of this new layer of review?
What role, if any, will artificial intelligence systems play in this review?
If artificial intelligence systems are used for this review, what systems will be used, and what parameters or instructions will guide the process?

Please provide a description of the guardrails that are in place to ensure that any information shared with and used by DOGE will protect the privacy of loan recipients.
Please provide a detailed description of all specific farm loan categories the new review policy does or does not apply to.
   What, if any, is the time limitation for the review?
Was any analysis performed about the effect on the applicants of the potential delay or denials as a result of this new policy, and if so, what was the conclusion?
The memorandum referenced an Executive Order covering “discretionary spending through Federal contracts, grants, loans, and related instruments” and was not specific to FSA farm loans.
Are there similar new procedures in place or being planned for other assistance to agricultural producers either through FSA farm programs or other agencies? If so, what are those procedures? If not, what makes farm loans trigger this review and not the other assistance to the same set of entities?


We look forward to working with you to ensure that our farmers and ranchers have access to the credit they need.
-30-

MIL OSI USA News –

May 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Banking: Open protocols like A2A and MCP are key to enabling the agentic web. With A2A support coming to Copilot Studio and Foundry, customers can build agentic systems that interoperate by design.

Source: Microsoft

Headline: Open protocols like A2A and MCP are key to enabling the agentic web. With A2A support coming to Copilot Studio and Foundry, customers can build agentic systems that interoperate by design.

Today, Microsoft is formalizing our partnership with Google around Agent2Agent (A2A) to contribute to and advance the protocol, including interoperability with Azure AI Foundry and Copilot Studio. In order for agents to truly be useful, over time they must be able to do more complex work on behalf of users. For that to happen, agents must be able to seamlessly interoperate with Internet services and with other agents. #MCP and #A2A are important steps for the agentic economy. See more here: aka.ms/a2a

MIL OSI Global Banks –

May 8, 2025

MIL-OSI: OTC Markets Group Reports First Quarter 2025 Financial Results Delivering Revenue and Operating Income Growth

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

First Quarter 2025 Highlights:

Gross revenues of $30.4 million for the quarter, up 10% versus the prior year period
Operating income of $7.3 million for the quarter, up 9% versus the prior year period
Operating profit margin of 24.7%, versus 25.0% for the prior year period
Net income of $6.0 million, up 1% versus the prior year period, and quarterly diluted GAAP EPS of $0.50, up 2%
Total cash returned to shareholders during the quarter of $5.1 million, comprised of dividends of $2.2 million and repurchases of common stock of $2.9 million
Announcing second quarter 2025 dividend of $0.18 per share
548 OTCQX^®and 1,051 OTCQB^®companies at quarter end
14 graduates to a national securities exchange during the quarter
116 subscribers to OTC Link ECN as of March 31, 2025, up 4 versus March 31, 2024
141 unique OTC Link subscribers as of March 31, 2025, up 6 versus March 31, 2024
Approximately 56,000 average daily trades during the quarter versus approximately 34,000 during the prior year period
OTC Markets Group announced that in July 2025, it will launch OTCID^TM– a Basic Reporting Market for companies that meet a minimal current information standard and provide a management certification. The Pink Current Market will cease to exist

NEW YORK, May 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX: OTCM), operator of regulated markets for trading 12,000 U.S. and international securities, today announced its financial results for the first quarter of 2025.

“During the first quarter of 2025, we remained focused on overnight trading and the launch of the OTCID Basic Market,” said R. Cromwell Coulson, President and Chief Executive Officer. “We continued to certify and connect subscribers to MOON ATS^TM and OTC Overnight^TM, and open distribution channels for our overnight data feeds. We are in constant communication with issuers, advisors, investors and our broker-dealer community as we move towards the July 1^st OTCID launch date. We believe these key initiatives will increase the value of our regulated trading platforms for broker-dealers and improve the quality of our markets for investors.”

“Our first quarter results highlighted the value of our diversified revenue streams and synergistic business lines,” said Antonia Georgieva, Chief Financial Officer. “OTC Link revenues increased, supported by higher trading volume, with price increases and subscriber growth driving Market Data Licensing revenue growth. Our Corporate Services business saw sales improve but experienced a small decline in revenues due to a lower number of companies across our markets. We remain focused on our key initiatives and on driving growth in users and usage of our products.”

First Quarter 2025 compared to First Quarter 2024

Financial Highlights

	Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands, except shares and per share data)		2025			2024		% change		$ change
OTC Link	$	6,563		$	5,397		22	%	1,166
Market data licensing		12,783			11,088		15	%	1,695
Corporate services		11,080			11,172		(1	%)	( 92	)
Gross Revenues		30,426			27,657		10	%	2,769
Net revenues		29,432			26,817		10	%	2,615
Revenues less transaction-based expenses		27,057			25,309		7	%	1,748
Operating expenses		19,783			18,610		6	%	1,173
Income from operations		7,274			6,699		9	%	575
Operating profit margin		24.7	%		25.0	%
Income before provision for income taxes		7,424			6,874		8	%	550
Net income	$	6,040		$	5,984		1	%	56

Diluted earnings per share	$	0.50		$	0.49		2	%
Adjusted diluted earnings per share	$	0.81		$	0.76		7	%
Weighted-average shares outstanding, diluted		11,834,071			11,863,089		–

Gross revenues of $30.4 million, up 10% over the prior year quarter. Revenues less transaction-based expenses up 7%.
OTC Link revenues up 22%. Transaction-based revenues from OTC Link ECN and OTC Link NQB up 46% due to a higher volume of shares traded on those platforms. Contributing to the overall increase in OTC Link revenues were an increase in certain connectivity revenue due to growth in the number of connection licenses and higher QAP service revenue related to the higher volume of trading activity.
Market Data Licensing revenues up 15%. Redistributor-based revenues increased 19%, with professional user revenues increasing 20%, and non-professional user revenues increasing 45% quarter over quarter. Revenues from direct sold licenses increased 22% primarily due to price increases and growth in subscribers as well as certain one-time revenue recognized during the quarter. Revenues from data and compliance solutions declined slightly at 1%, with lower revenue from EDGAR Online partially offset by increases in revenues from data services and our Blue Sky data product.
Corporate Services revenues down 1%. Revenues from our OTCQB market declined 2%, reflecting a lower number of companies on the OTCQB market, offsetting price increases effective from the beginning of the year. Revenues from our OTCQX market and our Disclosure & News Service^® (“DNS”) product increased 1% and 2%, respectively, in each case due to price increases offsetting a lower number of companies on the OTCQX markets or subscribing to DNS.
Operating expenses increased 6%. The increase was primarily driven by a 3% increase in compensation and benefits, 33% increase in professional and consulting fees, and 34% increase in general, administrative and other, primarily due to higher bad debt.
Operating income increased 9% and net income increased 1%, to $7.3 million and $6.0 million, respectively.
Adjusted EBITDA, which excludes non-cash stock-based compensation expense, increased 7% to $9.8 million, or $0.81 per adjusted diluted share.

Dividend Declaration – Quarterly Cash Dividend

OTC Markets Group announced today that its Board of Directors authorized and approved a quarterly cash dividend of $0.18 per share of Class A Common Stock. The quarterly cash dividend is payable on June 18, 2025, to stockholders of record on June 4, 2025. The ex-dividend date is June 4, 2025.

Stock Buyback Program

The Company is authorized to purchase shares from time to time on the open market, from employees and consultants, and through block trades, in compliance with applicable law. During the first quarter of 2025, the Company purchased 55,522 shares at an average price of $52.8575 per share.

On March 11, 2025, the Board of Directors refreshed the Company’s stock repurchase program, giving the Company authorization to repurchase up to 300,000 shares of the Company’s Class A Common Stock.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

In addition to disclosing results prepared in accordance with GAAP, the Company also discloses certain non-GAAP results of operations, including adjusted EBITDA and adjusted diluted earnings per share that either exclude or include amounts that are described in the reconciliation table of GAAP to non-GAAP information provided at the end of this release. Non-GAAP financial measures do not replace and are not superior to the presentation of GAAP financial results but are provided to improve overall understanding of the Company’s current financial performance. Management believes that this non-GAAP information is useful to both management and investors regarding certain additional financial and business trends related to the operating results. Management uses this non-GAAP information, along with GAAP information, in evaluating its historical operating performance.

First Quarter 2025 Conference Call

The Company will host a conference call and webcast on Thursday, May 8, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time, during which management will discuss the financial results in further detail. The call and webcast may be accessed as follows:

Webcast:
The conference webcast and management presentation can be accessed at the following link (replay available until May 7, 2026):

https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/5vwtdq3q

Live Call:
Participants intending to ask a question during the live call and Q&A session should also register in advance at:

https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BI6b79867bad5f4586a7cd407f82eecd3b

Upon registration, participants will receive a dial-in number along with a unique PIN number that can be used to access the live call. Live call participants may also select a “Call Me” option.

The Quarterly Report, earnings release, transcript of the earnings call, and management presentation will also be available in the Investor Relations section of the corporate website at

https://www.otcmarkets.com/about/investor-relations.

About OTC Markets Group Inc.

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

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

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

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

Investor Contact:

Antonia Georgieva
Chief Financial Officer
Phone: (212) 220-2215
Email: ir@otcmarkets.com

Media Contact:

OTC Markets Group Inc.
Phone: (212) 896-4428
Email: media@otcmarkets.com


OTC MARKETS GROUP INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(in thousands, except share and per share information)

	Three Months Ended March 31,
		2025			2024
OTC Link	$	6,563		$	5,397
Market data licensing		12,783			11,088
Corporate services		11,080			11,172
Gross revenues		30,426			27,657
Redistribution fees and rebates		(994	)		(840	)
Net revenues		29,432			26,817
Transaction-based expenses		(2,375	)		(1,508	)
Revenues less transaction-based expenses		27,057			25,309
Operating expenses
Compensation and benefits		12,906			12,522
IT Infrastructure and information services		2,715			2,699
Professional and consulting fees		1,956			1,466
Marketing and advertising		343			263
Occupancy costs		638			585
Depreciation and amortization		660			653
General, administrative and other		565			422
Total operating expenses		19,783			18,610
Income from operations		7,274			6,699
Other income
Other income		150			175
Income before provision for income taxes		7,424			6,874
Provision for income taxes		1,384			890
Net Income	$	6,040		$	5,984

Earnings per share
Basic	$	0.50		$	0.50
Diluted	$	0.50		$	0.49

Basic weighted average shares outstanding		11,756,815			11,705,383
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding		11,834,071			11,863,089


Non-GAAP Reconciliation
	Three Months Ended March 31,
		2025			2024
Net Income	$	6,040		$	5,984
Excluding:
Interest expense (income)		(149	)		(175	)
Provision for income taxes		1,384			890
Depreciation and amortization		660			653
Stock-based compensation expense		1,881			1,826
Adjusted EBITDA	$	9,816		$	9,178

Adjusted diluted earnings per share	$	0.81		$	0.76

Note: We use non-GAAP financial measures of operating performance. Non-GAAP measures do not replace and are not superior to the presentation of our GAAP financial results, but are provided to improve overall understanding of the Company’s current financial performance.


OTC MARKETS GROUP INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(in thousands, except share information)

	March 31,			December 31,
		2025			2024
Assets
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents	$	29,016		$	34,522
Short-term investments		3,871			4,513
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for credit losses of $462 and $326		9,268			8,097
Prepaid income taxes		430			244
Prepaid expenses and other current assets		2,771			2,237
Total current assets		45,356			49,613
Property and equipment, net		6,697			7,096
Operating lease right-of-use assets		10,597			10,951
Deferred tax assets, net		10,573			10,120
Goodwill		3,984			3,984
Intangible assets, net		6,684			6,829
Long-term restricted cash		1,606			1,606
Other assets		553			543
Total Assets	$	86,050		$	90,742

Liabilities and stockholders’ equity
Current liabilities
Accounts payable	$	854		$	1,175
Income taxes payable		1,457			54
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities		7,388			13,425
Deferred revenue		27,001			29,084
Total current liabilities		36,700			43,738
Income tax reserve		962			927
Operating lease liabilities		9,964			10,360
Total Liabilities		47,626			55,025
Commitments and contingencies
Stockholders’ equity
Common stock – par value $0.01 per share
Class A – 17,000,000 authorized, 12,904,727 issued, 12,013,295 outstanding at
March 31, 2025; 12,815,075 issued, 11,979,165 outstanding at December 31, 2024		129			128
Additional paid-in capital		36,889			35,127
Retained earnings		27,078			23,200
Treasury stock – 891,432 shares at March 31, 2025 and 835,910 shares at December 31, 2024		(25,672	)		(22,738	)
Total Stockholders’ Equity		38,424			35,717
Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity	$	86,050		$	90,742

The MIL Network –

May 8, 2025

Category: Machine Learning

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Source: Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand

Tech companies urged to join drive to cut crime

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