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Category: Machine Learning

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Refresh & Re-energize with Spring Savings on Samsung AI Tech

    Source: Samsung

    Warmer weather is right around the corner, but the transition from winter to spring offers more than green grass and chirping birds. It’s a time to refresh your space and re-energize your routines. To kick off the springtime celebrations, save up to 40%1 on Samsung tech that seamlessly connects during the Discover Samsung Spring Sale.
    From March 3 – 9, get ready to shop weeklong offers, deals of the day and big savings on bundles to power your passions.
    We know that cost savings and convenience are top of mind when it comes to AI in your appliances,2 and want to help turn your dream smart home into a reality. Whether you’re trying to find more “me” time, be more productive or save more, Samsung’s AI-powered tech is designed to help transform your everyday life into a better tomorrow.
    Wondering where to begin? Download the Samsung Shop App to unlock Early Access to exclusive offers beginning on March 1.
    Get a head start on your wish list with a sneak peek at upcoming offers below, and explore some of our favorite ways to make the most of your AI tech.
    To help cut down on costs, use power-saving features for your home appliances like AI Energy Mode. Located in the SmartThings App,4 AI Energy Mode helps reduce your energy consumption through real-time monitoring and AI-based energy-saving adjustments. For example, intelligently adjusting your refrigerator’s compressor speed, defrost cycles and temperature settings to reduce energy use during operation.
    Weeklong Deal: Bespoke AI Laundry Combo All-in-One: Save $1100 (promo price: starting at $2199)
    Deal of the Day 3/4: Bespoke AutoRelease Smart 42dBA Dishwasher with StormWash + and Smart Dry: Save $350 (promo price: starting at $549)

    To workout smarter and rest easier, let your tech take the lead on your wellness journey. Keep better track of your workouts and get deeper health data when you pair your Galaxy Ring and Watch to the Samsung Health app, including Heart Rate Tracking5 that filters out your body’s movements for a more accurate reading. And after a long day, recover with advanced sleep insights from your Galaxy Ring, including Energy Score and Wellness Tips powered by Galaxy AI.6
    Weeklong Deal: Galaxy Ring: Save $250 with eligible trade-in10 (promo price: starting at $149.99)
    Weeklong Deal: Galaxy Watch7: Save $200 with eligible trade-in10 (promo price: starting at $99.99)
    To eat healthier without the hassle, explore convenient Samsung Home AI features. AI Vision Inside7 helps you keep track of many items that go in and out of your fridge and automatically updates your food inventory list on the SmartThings app. When you’re ready to cook, get personalized recipe recommendations, search for follow-along video recipes and even access some of your favorite apps to multitask from the 7” AI Home Display on your Bespoke Range.
    Weeklong Deal: Bespoke 4-Door Flex Refrigerator (29 cu. ft.) with AI Family Hub + and AI Vision Inside : Save $1800 (promo price: starting at $3199)
    Deal of the Day 3/6: Bespoke Smart Slide-in Induction Range with AI Home & Smart Oven Camera: Save $1100 (promo price: starting at $2299)

    To learn faster, use Galaxy AI8 to transform your tech into a productivity powerhouse. Use Call Transcript9 on your Galaxy S25 to easily to remember important details and tasks for your to-do list. Call Transcript records, transcribes and summarizes your calls to generate automated notes to help keep you on track. And with Note Assist on your Galaxy Tab, you can record a lecture or meeting audio and let Galaxy AI transcribe, organize and even summarize your notes for you.
    Deal of the Day 3/3: Galaxy S25 Ultra: Save up to $1120 with eligible trade-in credit10 (promo price: starting at $1099.99)
    Weeklong Deal: Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra: Save up to $1000. Get up to $800 instant trade-in credit or up to $400 instant trade-in credit with any tablet trade-in. Or, get up to $180 off without trade-in, plus Galaxy Buds2 on us (promo price: starting at 1199.99
    To elevate your entertainment, take advantage of Samsung AI TV and audio innovations. Keep up with all the action like never before with AI Motion Enhancer Pro tracking hard-to-see objects. And with 8K AI Upscaling Pro11, sit back, relax and witness the power of your favorite classics being upscaled into stunning 8K resolution. For an even more cinematic experience, pair your TV with a Samsung soundbar designed with epic AI audio features and connectivity options.
    Deal of the Day 3/5: 85″ Class Samsung Neo QLED 8K (QN900D): Save $2700 (promo price: $5299.99)
    Weeklong Deal: Q-series 3.1.2 ch. Dolby ATMOS Soundbar w/ Q-Symphony: Save $270 (promo price: $329.99)
    We can’t wait to see how Samsung AI powers your everyday, everywhere. Be sure to check back for more ways to shop and save during the Discover Samsung Spring Sale.
    For information on the latest offers, visit Samsung.com.

    1 Eligible products, as well as terms and conditions, will be available on Samsung.com when the promotion begins on March 3.
    2 Source: December 2024 among 1,004 U.S. adults 18 to 65 conducted by IPSOS on behalf of Samsung.
    3 6/15/24 – 12/31/24, Promotional discount applies while supplies last when making your first qualifying purchase in the Shop Samsung App ($500 first order minimum). This offer is available to direct consumers only, Business customer accounts are not eligible. Void where prohibited or restricted by law. Samsung reserves the right to modify or discontinue offers at any time by posting notice on the app or website.
    4 SmartThings app available on Android and iOS devices. Wi-Fi connection and Samsung account required.
    5 The heart rate software functions are not intended for use in the diagnosis of disease or other conditions, N in the cure, mitigation, treatment or prevention of disease.
    6 Galaxy AI features on wearables track data and require compatible Samsung Galaxy AI phone, Samsung Health app and Samsung account.
    7 AI Vision Inside can recognize and automatically label 33 unobscured fresh food items such as select fruits and vegetables; other items may be manually labeled. Results vary by manner of placement. Wi-Fi connection and Samsung account required. Visit Samsung.com for more on AI Vision Inside and compatibility.
    8 Galaxy AI features will be provided for free until the end of 2025 on supported Samsung Galaxy devices.
    9 You must comply with local laws related to recording calls. Recordings and transcripts are stored on your device. Wi-Fi connection and Samsung account required.
    10 For a limited time only, on Samsung.com/Shop Samsung App, or purchase a new qualifying Galaxy device (“Qualifying Purchase”), send in your qualifying trade-in device to Samsung through the Samsung Trade-In Program, and if Samsung determines your trade-in device meets all eligibility requirements, you will receive a trade-in credit specific to your qualifying trade-in device to apply toward your Qualifying Purchase. Device models that currently qualify for trade-in and trade-in credit amounts associated with those models are available on Samsung.com and the Shop Samsung App; eligible models and amounts may change at Samsung’s sole discretion. To be eligible for trade-in, your qualifying device must meet all Trade-In Program eligibility requirements, which include, but are not limited to, that the device powers on, holds a charge, and does not power off unexpectedly; has a functioning display; has no breaks or cracks in the screen (unless a cracked screen offer applies); has no breaks or cracks in the case; has no liquid damage (whether visible or not); has no other defects that go beyond normal wear and tear; is not on a black list; has a verified FCC ID; has been reset to factory settings; has all personal information removed; has all software locks disabled; and is owned by you (leased devices are not eligible). Anticipated trade-in value will be applied as a credit at time of purchase, but, if you do not send in your trade-in device within 15 days of receipt of your Qualifying Purchase, you will be charged back for the trade-in credit applied to your purchase, or if you send in your trade-in device within 15 days of receipt of your Qualifying Purchase but Samsung determines your device does not meet all eligibility requirements, you will be charged back for the trade-in credit applied to your purchase minus $25. Participation in this program does not excuse you from contracts with your carrier or retailer (or any related payments or fees) for the device that was traded in. Limit 1 trade-in per Qualifying Purchase. Samsung reserves the right to modify or discontinue this offer at any time. The Trade-In Program cannot be combined with any other Samsung, carrier or retailer promotions, discounts, or offers unless specifically provided for in the terms and conditions of such offers. Additional terms, including terms that govern the resolution of disputes, apply. Visit Samsung.com for more.
    11 Uses AI-based formulas to upscale content to 8K

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 20 February 2025 Departmental update Message by the Director of the Department of Immunization, Vaccines and Biologicals at WHO – January/February 2025

    Source: World Health Organisation

    Safeguarding children and adolescents from deadly, yet preventable diseases, such as polio, measles, diphtheria, pertussis, human papillomavirus and tetanus, among others, is the foundation of the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) – saving an estimated 154 million lives and adding over 10 billion years of healthy life. Through strong partnerships and countries’ commitments vaccines have reached every corner of the world and became the single greatest contribution of any health intervention to ensuring babies not only see their first birthdays but continue leading healthy lives into adulthood.

    2025 marks a significant turning point for immunization efforts worldwide.

    Last year, we celebrated the remarkable progress made by the global immunization community since 1974. Each year, new and under-utilized vaccines continue to be introduced in countries. In 2024, four new countries introduced HPV vaccines and 25 adopted the single-dose schedule. Additionally, Niger and Nigeria became the first countries to implement the Men5CV vaccine, a new and affordable meningococcal pentavalent conjugate vaccine, and more than 12 million doses of malaria vaccine reached 17 countries in Africa in 2024 – a pivotal moment in the fight to end malaria.

    The Big Catch-up Initiative, a major vaccine co-financing initiative in collaboration with Gavi and UNICEF, began reaching children left unvaccinated as a result the pandemic. By the end of 2024, an estimated 143 million vaccine doses had been delivered to 36 countries and 10.5 million catch-up doses had already been administered. This year, an additional 104 million doses will be delivered as part of the Big Catch-up, and a new WHO global monitoring dashboard is enabling real-time data tracking to continually strengthen countries strategies and our support to them. The midway point of the Immunization Agenda 2030 is upon us. As we look towards the next five years there are challenges ahead, but the goal is more relevant than ever.

    Five immunization priorities for 2025

    Equity: Reaching Zero-Dose Children

    Vaccine equity remains one of the most urgent global health challenges of our time. While immunization programs have made tremendous progress, millions of children worldwide remain unreached—many of whom are classified as zero-dose children, meaning they have not received a single vaccine. In 2023, 14.5 million children had received no vaccines at all, a sharp increase from 12.9 million in 2019. These children are disproportionately from marginalized communities, including those in conflict zones, remote areas, and urban slums. The gap in coverage not only fuels preventable disease outbreaks but also deepens existing inequalities in health outcomes. Closing this gap requires targeted strategies: improving supply chains, strengthening healthcare infrastructure, and addressing socioeconomic barriers that prevent families from accessing vaccination services. Achieving true equity means ensuring that no child is left behind.

    Outbreaks: The Resurgence of Measles and System Strengthening

    Vaccine-Preventable Disease surveillance is another pillar of global health security. From yellow fever to measles to pneumonia, early detection ensures vaccines reach those who need them most. The alarming rise in measles cases is a stark reminder of result when immunization networks are weakened. Once considered on the path to elimination in many regions, measles is resurging due to gaps in vaccine coverage. This increase is a warning signal that vaccination systems are at risk—delayed campaigns, supply chain disruptions, and weakened trust in health services have created the basis for outbreaks. Strengthening immunization programmes is not just about responding to crises but about intense work to build resilient health systems so those crises are averted in the first place. This means enhancing surveillance, ensuring robust stockpiles of vaccines, training health workers, assuring data systems are in place to drive impact and intensifying essential immunization services. A failure to act decisively now could see other vaccine-preventable diseases following the same dangerous trend.

    Vaccine Confidence: Strengthening Trust Among Communities and Health Workers

    Confidence in vaccines is the backbone of successful immunization efforts. The past few years have exposed both the strengths and vulnerabilities of public trust in vaccines. Misinformation, historical mistrust, and political instability threaten to erode hard-won gains. At the same time, frontline health workers—the trusted faces of vaccination—must be supported with training and resources to confidently engage with communities. Trust must be built through transparency, education, and engagement. Governments, civil society, and the private sector must work together to counter misinformation and misrepresentation, amplify accurate information, and ensure that communities feel empowered, not coerced, in vaccine decision-making.

    New Vaccines: Innovation, Hope, and the Need for Strong Support

    Innovation in vaccines brings immense opportunity for tackling some of the world’s deadliest diseases. The introduction of new vaccines—whether for malaria, RSV, or the next pandemic threat—represents a turning point in public health.  New vaccines are only as impactful as the systems that deliver them. The success of these vaccines hinges not just on their development but on their effective introduction and sustained delivery. This is where our role supporting countries is critical: ensuring that regulatory approvals, financing mechanisms, health system readiness, and community acceptance are in place. Investing in the introduction of these vaccines with the same urgency as their research and development will be key to translating scientific breakthroughs into real-world protection.

    Funding and political challengers

    In January, President Donald Trump signed an Executive Order indicating the United States’ intent to withdraw from WHO. We remain hopeful that the US will reconsider. For decades, the partnership between the US and WHO has been instrumental in achieving historic public health milestones—from the eradication of smallpox to advancing global immunization efforts that have saved millions of lives in the US and around the world. This collaboration has protected Americans at home and abroad through disease surveillance, accelerating scientific progress, and ensuring that life-saving health interventions reach those who need them most, and shutting down outbreaks when they emerge, to limit their impact.

    Global health security is a shared responsibility. Infectious diseases do not respect borders, and the challenges we face—whether responding to outbreaks, developing new vaccines, or ensuring equitable access to healthcare—require international cooperation.

    WHO remains committed to its mission and will continue working with partners to strengthen global health systems. Strong leadership and sustained funding are critical to ensuring immunization programmes remain resilient. However, the political landscape for vaccines is increasingly unpredictable, putting decades of progress at risk.

    Moving Forward Together: A Moment for Global Health Cooperation

    Two upcoming meetings will be pivotal in providing critical guidance for future immunization policies and strategies.

    The Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunization (SAGE) will meet 10-13 March 2025, to advance global immunization policies and priorities. Key discussions will focus on IA2030 progress, pneumococcus vaccine schedules, varicella-zoster vaccination, new vaccine introductions, NITAG strengthening, and global polio eradication policy decisions and mpox updates. The Global Vaccine and Immunization Research Forum (March 25-27, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) will convene experts from around the world to advance vaccine innovations, sustainable R&D investments, Artificial Intelligence applications to vaccine development, climate-related challenges to immunization, and equitable access to vaccines. Key discussions will highlight Latin American advancements, maternal and new TB vaccines, vaccine role to reduce antimicrobial resistance, and clinical trial innovations for immunization.

    In closing, I want to thank Member States, partners, and all those in the global health community for the resilient commitment and focus on immunization, driven always by high quality evidence, science and impact. Now is the time to remain committed and sharpen our focus so that immunization for all is a reality.

    The world has the tools, knowledge, and capacity to protect future generations through vaccines. Political will and global solidarity are more valuable than ever to make that happen.

    In the words of Dr. Albert Sabin, “A scientist who is also a human being cannot rest while knowledge which might be used to reduce suffering rests on the shelf.” Let’s ensure that decades of progress are not left behind, but are built upon. It is in our hands. It is Humanly Possible.

     —-

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI: Intermap Closes on $12 Million in Financing

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES

    DENVER, Feb. 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Intermap Technologies Corporation (TSX: IMP) (“Intermap” or the “Company”), a global leader in 3D geospatial products and intelligence solutions, today announced the closing of its previously announced “bought deal” LIFE offering and concurrent private placement (together, the “Offerings”). The Company entered into an underwriting and agency agreement with Beacon Securities Limited (“Beacon” or the “Underwriter”) whereby the Company issued a total of (i) 2,957,000 Class “A” common shares of the Company (“Common Shares”) at a price of C$2.25 per Common Share (the “Offering Price”) for aggregate gross proceeds of C$6,653,250 (the “LIFE Offering”), including the full exercise of the Underwriter’s option, pursuant to the “listed issuer financing exemption” under Part 5A.2 of National Instrument 45-106 – Prospectus Exemptions (“NI 45-106”); and (ii) 2,047,225 Common Shares at the Offering Price for aggregate gross proceeds of C$4,606,256.25 (the “Concurrent Private Placement”), pursuant to other prospectus exemptions under NI 45-106.

    The Company intends to use the aggregate net proceeds of the Offerings for working capital and execution of government contracts. With increased capital, Intermap plans to accelerate its programs and augment its services.

    In connection with the Offerings, the Company paid to Beacon cash commissions equal to C$675,570.37 and an advisory fee of C$13,500. The Company also issued Beacon 177,420 non-transferrable compensation options in respect of the LIFE Offering (the “LIFE Offering Options”) and 122,834 non-transferrable compensation options in respect of the Concurrent Private Placement (the “Private Placement Options”, and together with the LIFE Offering Options, the “Compensation Options”). Each Compensation Option entitles the holder thereof to purchase one Common Share from the Company, at US$1.56850 in respect of the LIFE Offering Options and US$1.67306 in respect of the Private Placement Options, on or before February 20, 2027.

    The Common Shares sold pursuant to the LIFE Offering will not be subject to a hold period in Canada. The Common Shares sold pursuant to the Concurrent Private Placement are subject to the statutory hold period of four months and one day from the date of issuance in accordance with applicable Canadian securities laws.

    The securities described herein have not been, and will not be, registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “1933 Act”), or any state securities laws, and accordingly, may not be offered or sold within the United States except in compliance with the registration requirements of the 1933 Act and applicable state securities requirements or pursuant to exemptions therefrom. This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in the United States or in any other jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

    Intermap Reader Advisory 
    Certain information provided in this news release, including reference to the availability of proceeds from the Offerings and the intended use of proceeds in the Offerings in connection therewith, constitutes forward-looking statements. The words “will”, “intends”, “expected to”, “subject to” and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. Although Intermap believes that these statements are based on information and assumptions which are current, reasonable and complete, these statements are necessarily subject to a variety of known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Intermap’s forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties pertaining to, among other things, cash available to fund operations, availability of capital, revenue fluctuations, the nature of government contracts, including changing political circumstances in the relevant jurisdictions, economic conditions, loss of key customers, retention and availability of executive talent, competing technologies, common share price volatility, loss of proprietary information, software functionality, internet and system infrastructure functionality, information technology security, breakdown of strategic alliances, and international and political considerations, as well as those risks and uncertainties discussed Intermap’s Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2023 and other securities filings. While the Company makes these forward-looking statements in good faith, should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary significantly from those expected. Accordingly, no assurances can be given that any of the events anticipated by the forward-looking statements will transpire or occur, or if any of them do so, what benefits that the Company will derive therefrom. All subsequent forward-looking statements, whether written or oral, attributable to Intermap or persons acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by these cautionary statements. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as at the date of this news release and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update publicly or to revise any of the forward-looking statements made herein, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required by applicable securities law.

    About Intermap Technologies
    Founded in 1997 and headquartered in Denver, Colorado, Intermap (TSX: IMP) is a global leader in geospatial intelligence solutions, focusing on the creation and analysis of 3D terrain data to produce high-resolution thematic models. Through scientific analysis of geospatial information and patented sensors and processing technology, the Company provisions diverse, complementary, multi-source datasets to enable customers to seamlessly integrate geospatial intelligence into their workflows. Intermap’s 3D elevation data and software analytic capabilities enable global geospatial analysis through artificial intelligence and machine learning, providing customers with critical information to understand their terrain environment. By leveraging its proprietary archive of the world’s largest collection of multi-sensor global elevation data, the Company’s collection and processing capabilities provide multi-source 3D datasets and analytics at mission speed, enabling governments and companies to build and integrate geospatial foundation data with actionable insights. Applications for Intermap’s products and solutions include defense, aviation and UAV flight planning, flood and wildfire insurance, disaster mitigation, base mapping, environmental and renewable energy planning, telecommunications, engineering, critical infrastructure monitoring, hydrology, land management, oil and gas and transportation. 

    For more information, please visit www.intermap.com or contact:
    Jennifer Bakken
    Executive Vice President and CFO
    CFO@intermap.com
    +1 (303) 708-0955

    Sean Peasgood
    Investor Relations
    Sean@SophicCapital.com
    +1 (647) 260-9266

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Fueled by Micron Mobile Solutions, Samsung Galaxy S25 Series Raises the Bar for AI Experiences

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BOISE, Idaho, Feb. 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Micron Technology, Inc. (Nasdaq: MU) announced today that its industry-leading low-power double data rate 5X (LPDDR5X) memory and universal flash storage (UFS) 4.0 are featured in select devices in the Samsung Galaxy S25 series, which introduces multimodal AI agents to pioneer intuitive and context-aware mobile AI experiences. Additionally, Micron is now shipping its most power-efficient LPDDR5X memory ever to the market for the first time, offering users more than 10% power improvement.1 With its One UI 7 update, the Galaxy S25 series is a true AI companion that provides personalized experiences tailored to users’ unique needs, powered by multimodal AI agents that seamlessly interpret text, speech, images and videos.

    As smartphone AI capabilities grow in sophistication, processing is increasingly executed directly on edge devices rather than relying only on the cloud. This demands more high-performance memory and storage than ever to accommodate AI models and datasets on the devices. Power efficiency is also critical, with over 70% of smartphone users stating that battery life is the most important feature they consider when purchasing a phone.

    “We’ve optimized Micron’s mobile portfolio to deliver the power efficiency, high performance and large capacity needed to propel the next wave of AI innovation in flagship smartphones,” said Mark Montierth, corporate vice president and general manager of Micron’s Mobile Business Unit. “Samsung is setting a new standard for AI phones, enabling them to be true AI companions with context-aware and personalized mobile experiences powered by Micron’s leadership memory and storage.”

    Micron’s high-bandwidth LPDDR5X memory and advanced UFS 4.0 storage are embedded into select Galaxy S25 Ultra, Galaxy S25+ and Galaxy S25 devices, accelerating real-time AI processing at consumers’ fingertips. Micron’s UFS 4.0 storage is available in high capacities, allowing data to be stored locally instead of the cloud, providing greater security for personal data. Additionally, the power efficiency gains of Micron’s latest LPDDR5X are attributed to its advanced 1β (1-beta) process technology and design optimizations, enabling it to operate at voltages lower than the industry standard — resulting in longer battery life.

    “The Galaxy S25 series represents the next evolution of the mobile AI era — one that brings a more natural, context-aware and personalized experience to users, redefining how they interact with their devices and by extension, the world around them,” said Inkang Song, vice president and head of the technology strategy team at Samsung. “Through our close collaboration, Micron’s mobile solutions provide the foundation that powers these transformative AI capabilities, driving innovation and shaping the future of mobile AI technology.”

    This announcement follows Micron’s LPDDR5X and UFS 4.0 validation last fall for the Snapdragon® 8 Elite Mobile Platform, a chipset designed to accelerate AI-capable smartphones, in addition to complementing these solutions’ inclusion last year in Samsung’s AI-centric Galaxy S24 series. Together, these announcements illustrate Micron’s close collaboration across the mobile ecosystem, from chipset vendors to smartphone manufacturers, to enable a new generation of flagship smartphones delivering on-device AI.

    About Micron Technology, Inc.
    We are an industry leader in innovative memory and storage solutions transforming how the world uses information to enrich life for all. With a relentless focus on our customers, technology leadership, and manufacturing and operational excellence, Micron delivers a rich portfolio of high-performance DRAM, NAND and NOR memory and storage products through our Micron® and Crucial® brands. Every day, the innovations that our people create fuel the data economy, enabling advances in artificial intelligence (AI) and compute-intensive applications
    that unleash opportunities — from the data center to the intelligent edge and across the client and mobile user experience. To learn more about Micron Technology, Inc. (Nasdaq: MU), visit micron.com.

    © 2025 Micron Technology, Inc. All rights reserved. Information, products, and/or specifications are subject to change without notice. Micron, the Micron logo, and all other Micron trademarks are the property of Micron Technology, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

    Snapdragon is a trademark or registered trademark of Qualcomm Incorporated. Snapdragon is a product of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries. 

    1 When compared to JEDEC-standard operation

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Lucidworks Launches AI-Powered Commerce Studio and Analytics Studio, Available in New Fast-Start Packages

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Lucidworks, the leading provider of AI search and discovery solutions, today announced significant advancements in merchandising and analytics with the twin launches of Commerce Studio™ and Analytics Studio™. Bringing predictive AI and real-time insights to enterprise search and discovery, both platforms will be available as fast-start packages for B2B and B2C enterprises.

    Powered by first-of-its-kind AI, Commerce Studio’s Intelligent Merchandising Assistant offers real-time recommendations based on anonymized customer search and behavior data. Merchandisers can then choose whether to implement recommended changes with the click of a button, maintaining complete human control at every step. Commerce Studio boosts Revenue Per Visitor (RPV) by 15% or more while saving an estimated 1,000 hours of merchandiser time annually.

    Analytics Studio serves as a command center for search and discovery success, capturing the complete customer journey and transforming complex search data into actionable intelligence. Analytics Studio enables businesses to optimize rankings, personalize experiences, and identify new opportunities in real time.

    “Traditional merchandising does not work at scale,” said Mike Sinoway, CEO of Lucidworks. “Our new AI-powered merchandising is automated, more efficient, and more accurate, yet it offers full transparency and complete override controls. It’s just better in every way.”

    “Half of the U.S.’s top retailers – brands like Crate & Barrel and Lenovo – already turn to us for their search solutions, and we hear about their successes every day,” explained Keri Rich, VP of Product for Lucidworks. “In fact, Forrester recently found that our tools improve conversions and substantially improve profit. Now, with our studios’ AI-driven insights and touch-of-a-button controls, we aim to propel those profits even higher.”

    Both studios are available within Lucidworks’ new B2B and B2C Core Packages, which also include:

    • Neural Hybrid Search™, combining semantic understanding with keyword precision
    • Pre-configured templates and tools for immediate deployment
    • Comprehensive data integration and enrichment capabilities
    • Expert deployment and support

    Building on the recent launch of its AI orchestration engine, these new offerings illustrate Lucidworks’ strategic vision for intelligent enterprise search and discovery. Lucidworks will expand its offering later this year with Knowledge Management packages, further enhancing its enterprise search and discovery capabilities. For more information about Commerce Studio™, Analytics Studio™, and Lucidworks’ new package offerings, visit lucidworks.com.

    About Lucidworks
    Lucidworks clients are more than 2.5x more likely to successfully deploy generative AI initiatives than their peers. The world’s largest brands including Crate & Barrel, Lenovo, and Red Hat rely on Lucidworks’ suite of products to power commerce, customer service, and workplace applications that delight customers and empower employees. Learn more at Lucidworks.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Quantum Computing Solutions Big Influence on Commercial & Military Drone Applications Drastically Improving Operations

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PALM BEACH, Fla., Feb. 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FN Media Group News Commentary – Recent reports on the quantum computing market all seem to project substantial growth for years to come and will enter into a multitude of uses… including drones. A recent International Conference of Intelligent Computing & Optimization Conference paper, titled “Enhancing Privacy and Security for UAV and IoT Enabled Drones an Intelligent Integration of Blockchain, AI, and Quantum Computing” had this to say, in part: “Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and drones have seen an upsurge in their usage in various industries due to the advancement of the Internet of Things (IoT). Nevertheless, the extensive use of these technologies has given rise to concerns over privacy, data integrity, and security. This research presents a pioneering approach to tackle these challenges by amalgamating Blockchain technology, artificial intelligence (AI), and quantum computing. By virtue of its decentralized and immutable nature, blockchain can safeguard data integrity for UAVs and drones. A blockchain-based system can store all drone data transfers on distributed ledgers, thus enhancing transparency and reducing the risk of malicious tampering. The use of AI can significantly benefit drone operations and decision-making. AI systems empower drones to dynamically reroute themselves, predict potential security hazards, and adapt to new situations. Furthermore, AI’s real-time data processing can enhance anomaly detection and response times. Quantum computing, although still in its nascent stages, furnishes unparalleled processing capability. Drone data encryption is almost unfeasible to decrypt using conventional computing methods, as per quantum-enhanced security protocols that can be devised owing to quantum physics.”   Active Companies in the markets today include ZenaTech, Inc. (NASDAQ: ZENA), D-Wave Quantum Inc. (NYSE: QBTS), Quantum Computing Inc. (NASDAQ: QUBT), IonQ (NYSE: IONQ), Quantum Corporation (NASDAQ: QMCO).

    The article continued: “Additionally, quantum computing can expedite complex route enhancements, thereby considerably augmenting drone output. The amalgamation of Blockchain, AI, and Quantum Computing has provided a comprehensive solution to the privacy and security apprehensions concerning UAVs and IoT-enabled drones. The forthcoming drone operations are expected to reap the benefits of the most promising features of these technologies, thereby elevating the benchmark for efficiency, openness, and safety. This study’s investigation provides insights into the advantages… of these integration mechanisms. An Abstract from yet another scholarly paper on ScienceDirect.com titled: “Futuristic view of the Internet of Quantum Drones: Review, challenges and research agenda”, said this: “The disruptive technology of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), or drones, is a trend with increasing applications and practical relevance in the current and future society. Despite the common interest in drones for commercial deliveries, the use of this disruptive technology can be examined in the contexts of other world strategic demands such as climate change issues and traffic management. As of very recently, some drone-related futuristic disruptive technologies, including quantum drones (QD), the Internet of Quantum Drones (IoQDs), and a constellation of quantum satellites (CQS), are expected to be a breakthrough technology in strategic areas of society.”

    ZenaTech (NASDAQ:ZENA) Quantum Computing “Sky Traffic” Project Demonstrates High Accuracy in Initial Testing Leading to Expansion of Team and AI Drone Applications for Commercial and Defense – ZenaTech, Inc. (FSE: 49Q) (BMV: ZENA) (“ZenaTech”), a technology company specializing in AI (Artificial Intelligence) drones, Drone as a Service (DaaS), enterprise SaaS and Quantum Computing solutions, announces positive results from initial testing and an update on its Quantum Computing Sky Traffic project. An initial test using the Company’s AI algorithms and quantum computing to predict weather has resulted in a high level of accuracy for the parameters tested including actual temperatures verses predicted temperatures in the test which used 2016 data.

    Due in part to these encouraging results, ZenaTech is now growing its internal team over the next two months. As part of the ramp up, the Company is adding additional quantum, AI and hardware engineers, and optimization specialists and is engaged in recruiting staff from physics facilities at international universities, including researchers, instructors, and Ph.D. candidates.

    “The Sky Traffic project leverages AI and quantum computing to process vast data streams to improve the accuracy and speed of weather forecasting that can also apply to the innovation of many other commercial and defense applications utilizing drones. Our hiring strategy focuses on assembling a multidisciplinary team of quantum and AI specialists, and hardware and aerospace engineers to help us revolutionize autonomous drones. By combining quantum algorithms with advanced machine learning, we can optimize navigation, decision-making, and real-time data processing for next-generation aerial intelligence,” said CEO Shaun Passley, Ph.D.

    ZenaTech launched the Sky Traffic project in November 2024, which will utilize its AI drones, quantum computing, and specialized quantum and AI teams to develop and test advanced applications for traffic management, weather forecasting, wildfire management and defense applications using large datasets, Amazon Web Services, and computing devices and platforms.

    AI Drones are used in weather forecasting to collect real-time atmospheric data from hard-to-reach areas, such as storm systems or remote regions, providing valuable input for weather models. Quantum computers can then analyze this vast and complex data much faster and more accurately, improving weather predictions and enhancing the ability to forecast extreme events like hurricanes, tornadoes, or wildfires.

    AI and quantum computing can work together to make defense drones smarter, faster, and more efficient using a single drone or a swarm of multiple drones. AI helps drones analyze data, recognize objects, and make decisions on their own, while quantum computing can process massive amounts of information much faster than regular computers. For example, a defense drone using AI can detect enemy movement, but adding quantum computing allows it to analyze complex battlefield data instantly and find the best flight path or strategy in real time. This combination improves reaction speed, mission accuracy, and overall drone performance, making them more effective for surveillance, reconnaissance, and security operations.

    Quantum computing is an emergent field of cutting-edge computer science harnessing the unique qualities of quantum mechanics to solve problems beyond the ability of even the most powerful classical computers of today, to process massively complicated mathematical problems and data at orders of magnitude faster speeds.

    The ZenaDrone 1000 is a multifunction autonomous drone, in a VTOL (Vertical Takeoff and Landing) quadcopter design with eight rotors; it is considered a medium-sized drone measuring 12X7 feet in size. It is designed for stable flight, maneuverability, heavy lift capabilities up to 40 kilos, incorporating innovative software technology, AI, sensors, and purpose-built attachments, along with compact and rugged hardware engineered for industrial and defense use for a variety of inspection, surveillance or tracking applications.   Continued… Read this full release by visiting: https://www.financialnewsmedia.com/news-zena/

    Other recent developments in the markets include:

    D-Wave Quantum Inc. (NYSE: QBTS) and the Julich Supercomputing Centre (“JSC”) at Forschungszentrum Julich (“FZJ”) have recently announced that FZJ has purchased a D-Wave quantum computer, becoming the first high-performance computing (HPC) center in the world to own a D-Wave Advantage(TM) annealing quantum computing system.

    With the purchase of the world’s largest quantum computer and Europe’s first quantum computer with more than 5,000 qubits and 15-way connectivity, the Julich UNified Infrastructure for Quantum computing (JUNIQ), a public quantum computing user facility deployed by JSC, gains complete access to all aspects of the system. This will allow it to integrate the D-Wave system with Julich’s JUPITER exascale supercomputer in the future, potentially enabling breakthroughs in areas such as artificial intelligence (AI) and quantum optimization. JSC’s system will be upgraded to D-Wave’s next-generation Advantage2 processor once available. The Advantage2 system is expected to deliver significant performance gains with doubled coherence, increased connectivity and a 40 percent boost to the energy scale for advanced problem solving.

    Quantum Computing Inc. (NASDAQ: QUBT) recently announced it has received a fifth purchase order for its thin film lithium niobate (TFLN) photonic chip foundry. The latest order comes from a research group based in Canada to support its research efforts on quantum photonics.

    As part of the order, QCi will provide the research group with custom test structures based on its TFLN photonic integrated circuit (PIC) chip technology. These test structures will serve as a baseline for advanced designs, such as periodically poled lithium niobate (PPLN) components, which are essential for generating entangled photons and optical frequency conversion. Under this order agreement, the research group will also receive priority access and preferred rates for future multi-project wafer (MPW) runs offered by QCi.

    IonQ (NYSE: IONQ) and General Dynamics Information Technology (GDIT), a business unit of General Dynamics, recently announced a partnership to bring the power of quantum computing to government and defense sectors.

    IonQ and GDIT are partnering to combine GDIT’s deep technical and government agency mission expertise with IonQ’s pioneering quantum technology. Together, the companies will co-develop and market advanced quantum processing and networking applications to address high-impact use cases, including quantum AI extensions, resource optimization, and anomaly detection. This collaboration aims to deliver transformative capabilities for federal, and state governments, meeting critical challenges with cutting-edge solutions.

    Quantum Corporation (NASDAQ: QMCO) recently announced scalability enhancements to its Quantum Myriad® all-flash file system, making it the first solution to offer incremental, in-place system scaling with dynamic, automatic data leveling. These advancements deliver unmatched flexibility and adaptability in a modern, all-flash file system so customers can meet their evolving storage requirements in the era of AI.

    The new scalability features enable customers to start with as few as five partially populated NVMe Storage Server nodes, then expand in increments of one or more nodes at a time with the additional storage available in minutes, with no need for admin intervention, and no impact or interruption to user operation. Customers will be able to continue adding nodes as their needs grow, increasing capacity while maintaining linear performance with automatic data leveling across all nodes as new Storage Server nodes are added.

    About FN Media Group:

    At FN Media Group, via our top-rated online news portal at www.financialnewsmedia.com, we are one of the very few select firms providing top tier one syndicated news distribution, targeted ticker tag press releases and stock market news coverage for today’s emerging companies. #tickertagpressreleases #pressreleases

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    DISCLAIMER:  FN Media Group LLC (FNM), which owns and operates FinancialNewsMedia.com and MarketNewsUpdates.com, is a third party publisher and news dissemination service provider, which disseminates electronic information through multiple online media channels.  FNM is NOT affiliated in any manner with any company mentioned herein.  FNM and its affiliated companies are a news dissemination solutions provider and are NOT a registered broker/dealer/analyst/adviser, holds no investment licenses and may NOT sell, offer to sell or offer to buy any security.  FNM’s market updates, news alerts and corporate profiles are NOT a solicitation or recommendation to buy, sell or hold securities.  The material in this release is intended to be strictly informational and is NEVER to be construed or interpreted as research material.  All readers are strongly urged to perform research and due diligence on their own and consult a licensed financial professional before considering any level of investing in stocks.  All material included herein is republished content and details which were previously disseminated by the companies mentioned in this release.  FNM is not liable for any investment decisions by its readers or subscribers.  Investors are cautioned that they may lose all or a portion of their investment when investing in stocks.  For current services performed FNM has been compensated fifty four hundred dollars for news coverage of the current press releases issued by ZenaTech, Inc. by the Company.  FNM HOLDS NO SHARES OF ANY COMPANY NAMED IN THIS RELEASE.

    This release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended and such forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. “Forward-looking statements” describe future expectations, plans, results, or strategies and are generally preceded by words such as “may”, “future”, “plan” or “planned”, “will” or “should”, “expected,” “anticipates”, “draft”, “eventually” or “projected”. You are cautioned that such statements are subject to a multitude of risks and uncertainties that could cause future circumstances, events, or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, including the risks that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, and other risks identified in a company’s annual report on Form 10-K or 10-KSB and other filings made by such company with the Securities and Exchange Commission. You should consider these factors in evaluating the forward-looking statements included herein, and not place undue reliance on such statements. The forward-looking statements in this release are made as of the date hereof and FNM undertakes no obligation to update such statements.

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    SOURCE: FN Media Group

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Intapp DealCloud named Deal Origination Solution of the Year: Credit at the Private Equity Wire European Awards 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PALO ALTO, Calif., Feb. 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Intapp (NASDAQ: INTA), a leading global provider of AI-powered solutions for professionals at advisory, capital markets, and legal firms, today announced that Intapp DealCloud was named Deal Origination Solution of the Year: Credit at the Private Equity Wire European Awards 2025. Chosen by industry voters, these awards recognize fund managers and service providers driving innovation, transformation, and growth across the European private markets landscape.

    Shortlisted nominees were selected by a judging panel of European-based general partners and other key industry participants. This year, more than 7,000 votes were submitted by readers of Private Equity Wire across the service provider categories. Winners were announced and celebrated at a gala on February 13 in London.

    “We’re honored to once again be recognized as a winner at the Private Equity Wire European Awards — this time for our excellence in deal origination,” said Rudy Saad, Global Head of Private Equity and Private Capital Markets at Intapp. “This award serves as a testament to our continued ability to develop leading, industry-specific AI-powered solutions that empower dealmakers to originate both investments and investors — ultimately strengthening their competitive market positioning and driving their commercial growth.”

    DealCloud is a data-powered platform designed to help enterprise private credit firms accelerate deals, optimize portfolio performance, improve collaboration, and make better-informed decisions — all from a centralized hub. With AI capabilities, automated data capture, and integrated market intelligence, DealCloud helps teams work more efficiently by consolidating data, automating processes, and generating actionable intelligence. As a result, teams have more time to focus on strengthening their networks and sourcing more opportunities.

    Learn how Intapp DealCloud helps firms successfully source and close deals and achieve long-term success at intapp.com/dealcloud.

    About Intapp
    Intapp software helps professionals unlock their teams’ knowledge, relationships, and operational insights to increase value for their firms. Using the power of Applied AI, we make firm and market intelligence easy to find, understand, and use. With Intapp’s portfolio of vertical SaaS solutions, professionals can apply their collective expertise to make smarter decisions, manage risk, and increase competitive advantage. The world’s top firms — across accounting, consulting, investment banking, legal, private capital, and real assets — trust Intapp’s industry-specific platform and solutions to modernize and drive new growth. For more information, visit intapp.com and connect with us on X, formerly Twitter (@intapp) and LinkedIn.

    Intapp
    Ali Robinson
    Global Media Relations Director, Intapp
    press@intapp.com
    678-909-0703

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Sprout Social Recognized by G2’s Best Software Awards for the Ninth Consecutive Year

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO, Feb. 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Sprout Social (Nasdaq: SPT), an industry-leading provider of cloud-based social media management software, has been recognized by G2’s 2025 Best Software Awards. This is the ninth consecutive year Sprout has received this recognition, which ranks the world’s best software companies and products based on authentic, timely reviews from users. Sprout Social is featured as a top company across 7 award categories, including:

    • Global Software Companies
    • Best Software Product
    • Best Product for Marketing and Digital Advertising
    • Highest Satisfaction Products

    Today’s consumers expect brands to not only be on social media but to use their social presence to provide quick and personalized care, creative and inspiring content and to engage with culture in a relevant and genuine way. Continuing to earn top recognitions by G2’s annual awards reflects the essential role of social media software in enabling brands to make the most of social in this evolving environment and create lasting impact.

    “Social media is mission critical for today’s organizations and we’ve built a platform that helps the world’s top brands build social campaigns that drive revenue, increase awareness and set their businesses up for competitive, lasting success,” said Scott Morris, Chief Marketing Officer, Sprout Social. “Being recognized by G2 for nine consecutive years is an incredible testament of Sprout’s commitment to innovation and to delivering solutions that help our customers increase their social sophistication and meet growing consumer demands on social.”

    In the past year, Sprout Social has continued to enhance its platform. Innovations include a suite of AI-powered solutions, its rebranded influencer platform—Sprout Social Influencer Marketing—and deeper integrations with industry-leading organizations like Salesforce. These advancements, along with new strategic partnerships across various sectors, have delivered ongoing value for its customers as they elevate their social strategies.

    Sprout Social earned recognition on G2’s 2025 Best Software Awards because of customer feedback, including:

    “The detailed analytics provided by Sprout give us actionable insights, helping us refine our strategies and demonstrate clear ROI to our clients. It’s not just about managing posts; it’s about having a comprehensive understanding of our social media impact, which Sprout makes possible with minimal hassle.”

    “Sprout has consistently been the best social management tool I’ve used at various organizations. I have used it since 2011. It is always improving and keeping up with the latest trends in social media without over-inflating the cost like many other services. Its integration of AI tools has been well thought out and actually adds value.”

    “The suite of tools offered by Sprout Social has helped us expand our social media program efficiently! From publishing to analytics to employee advocacy, we have used these tools to operationalize social media programs, establish efficient workflows, and make strategic decisions based on detailed analytics. These tools have also enabled us to expand our social media presence and rally the entire organization around our social media efforts.”

    Learn about G2’s 2025 Best Software Awards or read more reviews directly from Sprout users here.

    About Sprout Social

    Sprout Social is a global leader in social media management and analytics software. Sprout’s intuitive platform puts powerful social data into the hands of approximately 30,000 brands so they can deliver smarter, faster business impact. Sprout offers comprehensive publishing and engagement functionality, customer care, influencer marketing, advocacy, and AI-powered business intelligence. Sprout’s software operates across all major social media networks and digital platforms. For more information about Sprout Social (NASDAQ: SPT), visit sproutsocial.com.

    Social Media Profiles:
    www.twitter.com/SproutSocial
    www.twitter.com/SproutSocialIR
    www.facebook.com/SproutSocialInc
    www.linkedin.com/company/sprout-social-inc-/
    www.instagram.com/sproutsocial

    Contact
    Media:
    Kaitlyn Gronek
    Email: pr@sproutsocial.com 
    Phone: (773) 904-9674

    Investors:
    Lexi Johnson
    Twitter: @SproutSocialIR
    Email: lexi.johnson@sproutsocial.com 
    Phone: (312) 528-9166

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Women Founders Face Persistent Funding Gaps—Philadelphia Event Aims to Accelerate Action

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PHILADELPHIA, Feb. 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In recognition of International Women’s Day and its 2025 theme, “Accelerate Action,” Keiretsu Forum MST and Pennovation Works will host the Women Founders Showcase on March 5, 2025. This event will bring together investors, entrepreneurs, and business leaders to address the critical funding gap for women-led startups and highlight opportunities for investment, mentorship, and collaboration.

    Despite progress in entrepreneurship, women-led startups continue to receive less than 2% of venture capital funding annually, according to PitchBook. The Women Founders Showcase aims to address this disparity by connecting investors with women-led companies that are actively raising capital and driving innovation in their respective industries.

    Event Details:
    Date: March 5, 2025
    Location: Pennovation Works, Philadelphia
    Time: 1:30 PM – 5:30 PM
    Registration: https://bit.ly/AccelerateAction

    The event will feature six presenting companies who are actively funding, a keynote from Mellie Chow, and a panel discussion with seasoned investors and founders. Mellie Chow, a venture partner at Archangel Axion Fund, has spent over 20 years investing in and advising early-stage companies. Her keynote, “What IFF We Could Accelerate Action?”, will challenge investors, founders, and funders to drive meaningful change in startup funding.

    Presenting Companies:

    • Actuated Medical (Maureen Mulvihill) – Developing motion-based medical devices for precision healthcare.
    • Relavo Medical (Sarah Lee) – Innovating safer, at-home dialysis solutions.
    • Couplet Care (Stacie McEnyre) – Enhancing maternal and infant care through patient-centered innovations.
    • InnovoTex (Krystle Karoscik) – Advancing drug delivery for hard-to-treat cancers.
    • ConferenceConnect.com (Ashley Wilson) – A platform improving networking and collaboration at professional events.
    • Baleena (Julia Yan) – Reducing microplastic pollution through an accessible filtration device.

    Panel Discussion: Addressing Key Challenges for Founders and Funders
    Following the keynote, a panel of investors, funders, and founders will discuss actionable strategies for securing funding, managing business growth, and building strong advisory networks. Topics will include:

    • Exploring funding opportunities beyond venture capital, including angel investment, crowdfunding, and grants.
    • Structuring early-stage companies for scalability and protecting intellectual property.
    • Recruiting the right advisors, mentors, and board members.
    • Navigating the emotional and strategic challenges of entrepreneurship.

    Panelists include Ellen Weber (Robin Hood Ventures & Mid-Atlantic Diamond Angels), Mellie Chow (Archangel Venture Partners), Lindsay R. Mozdziock (Morgan Lewis), Louise Klein (Courage Partners), Ashley Wilson (Investor & Entrepreneur), Julia Anthony (SOLUtion Medical), Mical Jeanlys-White (WealthMore), and Maureen Mulvihill (Actuated Medical).

    Why This Event Matters
    Women founders bring innovation, leadership, and measurable economic impact to their industries, yet they face persistent challenges in securing funding. The Women Founders Showcase provides a platform to change that by fostering direct connections between investors and women-led businesses that are ready for growth. This event serves as both an educational opportunity and a direct pathway to investment and business development.

    Media Contact:

    Cindi Sutera
    Keiretsu Forum- MST
    Program Director and Communications Specialist
    CindiS@AMSCommunications.net and 610-613-2773

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: City of Columbus Selects Voltus as its Exclusive Demand Response Provider

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN FRANCISCO and COLUMBUS, Ohio, Feb. 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Voltus, Inc. (Voltus), the leading virtual power plant (VPP) operator and distributed energy resource (DER) platform, today announced its selection as the exclusive Curtailment Service Provider for loads operated by the City of Columbus and retail customers of the City of Columbus Division of Power. This partnership unlocks new revenue streams for the City’s municipal facilities and retail electric customers, while supporting the reliability of the local electric grid for residents.

    The selection comes after a rigorous evaluation process that highlighted Voltus’s key differentiators, including:

    • Industry-leading technology platform providing customers with real-time energy consumption, performance, and earnings data;
    • Strong local presence and experienced project team with extensive knowledge of the PJM market;
    • Program structure without out-of-pocket penalties for underperformance; and
    • Ability to stack multiple revenue streams

    “Since the record-breaking PJM capacity prices were released earlier this year, the Voltus team has been engaging customers across the mid-Atlantic and Ohio Valley area to equip them with the guidance and resources they need to reduce the potential impact to their businesses,” said Voltus’s Vice President of Sales, Sam Scuilli. “With unique services like AI Adjuster, we’re empowering PJM customers to participate in multiple demand response programs in a manner that optimizes their revenue potential and minimizes the risk of underperformance.”

    For more information about participating in the City of Columbus demand response program, please reach out to info@voltus.co.

    About Voltus
    Voltus is a leading DER technology platform and virtual power plant operator connecting distributed energy resources to electricity markets, delivering less expensive, more reliable, and more sustainable electricity. Our commercial and industrial customers and DER partners generate cash by allowing Voltus to maximize the value of their flexible load, distributed generation, energy storage, energy efficiency, and electric vehicle resources in these markets. To learn more, visit www.voltus.co.

    Media Contact
    Mona Khaldi
    press@voltus.co

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Growth in Originations Expected Across Multiple Credit Products in 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO, Feb. 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Despite recent data calling into question the possibility of interest rate cuts over this year, new account originations across several credit products are still expected to grow in 2025. These findings were released today in conjunction with TransUnion’s (NYSE: TRU) newly issued Q4 2024 Quarterly Credit Industry Insights Report (CIIR).

    Following multiple years of depressed origination growth, largely driven by stubbornly high inflation, rising interest rates and elevated home and vehicle prices, new auto, mortgage, and unsecured personal loans are expected to see gains in 2025. A myriad of factors, not the least of which is lenders’ continued caution in their underwriting strategies, will likely temper the overall rate of growth across these products.

    “The Federal Reserve has signaled that it will not rush into interest rate cuts, potentially keeping rates at a level that could give consumers pause,” said Jason Laky, executive vice president and head of financial services at TransUnion. “However, we still believe that many consumer credit products will have higher originations in 2025. This will range from modest growth in auto and unsecured personal loans to more significant increases in mortgage.”

    Originations are Expected to Grow YoY Across Many Credit Products in 2025

    Loan Product Percent Change in Origination Growth
    Auto +2.7%
    Mortgage (Purchase) +13.3%
    Unsecured Personal Loans +5.7%

    Changes in originations are also impacted by trends within these lending products. A deeper dive into the origination picture for each loan product can be found below:

    • One key driver of the forecasted growth in auto originations is new light vehicle sales, which have been forecasted to grow 2.8% in 2025. However, forecasted growth may be tempered as industry and consumers navigate potential policy shifts introduced by the new administration. In addition, relatively high interest rates, inflation remaining above 2%, and a still recovering used vehicle supply may also mitigate auto originations growth.
    • Mortgage originations are forecast to increase from approximately 4.6 million in 2024 to approximately 5.7 million in 2025, with most of those being purchase originations (~3.8 million).
    • Unsecured personal loan lenders are expected to continue expanding lending to riskier tiers in 2025 as the macro economy continues to moderate. Originations are expected to increase to approximately 20.8 million over the year.

    TransUnion’s Q4 2024 Credit Industry Insights Report sees continued signs of stabilization across consumer credit products

    A number of the signs of a more stable consumer credit environment that emerged in Q3 2024 have continued over the past quarter across the credit spectrum. Originations saw some measure of YoY growth in the most recent quarter for which data are available for auto, mortgage, and unsecured personal loans. In credit cards, originations saw a smaller YoY decline than in recent quarters. Delinquencies ticked down across some credit products, although others saw increases. Balances saw increases that were more in line with rates seen prior to 2020 than in the years since.

    “In Q4 2024, we saw several signals inching towards a return to more typical patterns within the consumer credit market,” said Michele Raneri, vice president and head of research at TransUnion. “Originations ticked up across mortgage and auto and saw more significant growth in unsecured personal loans. In contrast, delinquencies presented more of a mixed bag, seeing increases in auto and mortgage, while at the same time decreasing for unsecured personal loans and credit cards. We will be looking for additional signs of improved performance in these markets moving forward.”

    To learn more about the latest consumer credit trends, register for the Q4 2024 Quarterly Credit Industry Insights Report webinar. Read on for more specific insights about credit cards, personal loans, auto loans and mortgages.

    Serious consumer-level delinquencies decline year-over-year for first time since 2020 in card

    Q4 2024 CIIR Credit Card Summary

    More signs of a return to equilibrium were present in the credit card market in Q4 2024. Consumer-level 90+ days past due delinquencies ticked down by 3 basis points YoY to 2.56%, which marked the first annual decrease since 2020. Similarly, account-level delinquencies fell by 4 basis points YoY to 1.46%. This is likely in part due to the continuation of a more conservative origination strategy among lenders. Originations saw a 4.8% YoY decline in Q3 2024. This marks the sixth consecutive quarter of declining new account volumes on an annual basis. Despite that, the slowdown in originations is decelerating, with the latest quarter seeing the smallest YoY decline since Q2 2023. Super prime was the only risk tier to see originations growth in Q3 2024, at 1.2% YoY. While originations have slowed, balances continued to grow to record highs, increasing 5.7% to $1.1 trillion. This growth was seen across risk tiers, though the pace of balance growth has returned closer to pre-2020 levels.

    Instant Analysis

    “Prior predictions had anticipated a moderation in delinquency rates in Q1 2025. The peak was pulled forward by the effect of recalibrated risk strategies and disproportionate originations in prime and above segments. At the same time, there are signs that consumer demand for credit cards may be increasing, as year-over-year originations declines are getting smaller, and some risk tiers, such as super prime, are increasing for the first time in several quarters.”

    – Paul Siegfried, senior vice president and credit card business leader at TransUnion

    Q4 2024 Credit Card Trends

    Credit Card Lending Metric (Bankcard) Q4 2024 Q4 2023 Q4 2022 Q4 2021
    Number of Credit Cards (Bankcards) 561.5 million 542.6 million 518.4 million 483.7 million
    Borrower-Level Delinquency Rate (90+ DPD) 2.56% 2.59% 2.26% 1.48%
    Total Credit Card Balances $1.11 Trillion $1.05 Trillion $931 billion $785 billion
    Average Debt Per Borrower $6,580
    		 $6,360 $5,805 $5,139
    Number of Consumers Carrying a Balance 173.1 million 169.9 million 166.0 million 159.0 million
    Prior Quarter Originations* 19.1 million 20.1 million 21.6 million 19.8 million
    Average New Account Credit Lines* $5,702
    		 $5,673 $5,226 $4,468


    *Note: Originations are viewed one quarter in arrears to account for reporting lag.
    For more credit card industry information, click here for episodes of Extra Credit: A Card and Banking Podcast by TransUnion.

    Growth in unsecured personal loan originations leads to record volumes, total balances

    Q4 2024 CIIR Unsecured Personal Loan Summary

    The positive trend in unsecured personal loans continued for another quarter. Originations for Q3 2024, the most recent quarter of data available, stood at 5.8 million – an increase of 15% year-over-year. This marked the third consecutive quarter of YoY growth and the first quarter of double-digit growth in two years (since Q2 2022). All risk tiers contributed to this expansion, especially the super prime and the below prime tiers, which grew around 17% compared to the prior year. This growth drove records, per Q4 2024 data, in the volume of outstanding loans, in total balances, and in the number of consumers with a balance. Concurrently, average debt per borrower was lower year-over-year in Q4 2024, driven by the prime and below risk tiers. Finally, 60+ DPD borrower-level delinquencies fell year-over-year for Q4 2024 to 3.57% — 33 basis points below the same quarter last year. The decline was due to risk mix shift as lower risk super prime borrowers continued to grow as a share of total loans, as well as from delinquencies among subprime borrowers which fell 136 basis points year-over-year.

    Instant Analysis

    “The unsecured personal loan market continued its rebound with originations growing year-over-year across risk tiers, and with strong double-digit growth for most of them. Additionally, borrower-level delinquencies still saw declines year-over-year. This was due to loans being issued across the credit spectrum – especially super prime – and from the subprime delinquency rate continuing to fall even as lending has opened back up to this segment. With the growth to date and optimism from lenders, we expect to see this as the beginning of a period of expansion.”

    – Liz Pagel, senior vice president of consumer lending at TransUnion

    Q4 2024 Unsecured Personal Loan Trends

    Personal Loan Metric Q4 2024 Q4 2023 Q4 2022 Q4 2021
    Total Balances $251 billion $245 billion $222 billion $167 billion
    Number of Unsecured Personal Loans 29.6 million 28.1 million 27.0 million 22.8 million
    Number of Consumers with Unsecured Personal Loans 24.5 million 23.5 million 22.5 million 19.9 million
    Borrower-Level Delinquency Rate (60+ DPD) 3.57% 3.90% 4.14% 3.00%
    Average Debt Per Borrower $11,607 $11,773 $11,116 $9,622
    Average Account Balance $8,496 $8,704 $8,195 $7,328
    Prior Quarter Originations* 5.8 million 5.0 million 5.6 million 5.1 million


    *Note: Originations are viewed one quarter in arrears to account for reporting lag.
     Click here for additional unsecured personal loan industry metrics.

    Mortgage delinquencies up year-over-year, yet remain low by historical standards

    Q4 2024 CIIR Mortgage Loan Summary

    Originations grew 7% YoY in Q3 2024, the most recent quarter for which data are available. This represented the third consecutive quarter in which mortgage originations were either flat or showed growth. Purchase originations continued to drive this growth, accounting for 82% of all originations for the quarter. This compares to a 68% average Q3 purchase share in the five years pre-pandemic. Rate and term refinance originations also played a role in this growth, seeing significant YoY growth of 174% in Q3 2024. This doubled the counts from the prior quarter as homeowners who recently opened a mortgage took advantage of the lowest rates in two years. Account-level delinquencies of 60+ days past due stood at 1.38% for Q4 2024. This remains a trend worth monitoring in coming quarters, particularly as the non-mortgage debt of homeowners continues to grow, up 7% YoY in Q3 2024.

    Instant Analysis

    “Despite recent quarters of growth, origination volumes continue to be depressed by historical standards. Recent Federal Reserve indications that interest rate reductions may occur more slowly may result in decelerated growth in 2025. Year-over-year increases in delinquency continue to be worth monitoring closely. Yet, even despite a relatively steady series of year-over-year increases in recent quarters, the rate remains extremely low relative to historical standards.”

    – Satyan Merchant, senior vice president, automotive and mortgage business leader at TransUnion

    Q4 2024 Mortgage Trends

    Mortgage Lending Metric Q4 2024 Q4 2023 Q4 2022 Q4 2021
    Number of Mortgage Loans 53.1 million 52.9 million 52.6 million 51.2 million
    Consumer-Level Delinquency Rate (60+ DPD) 1.29% 1.03% 0.89% 0.75%
    Prior Quarter Originations* 1.2 million 1.2 million 1.5 million 3.4 million
    Average Loan Amounts
    of New Mortgage Loans*    		 $354,943 $337,977 $334,339 $311,743
    Average Balance per Consumer $263,923 $258,167 $252,212 $237,539
    Total Balances of All Mortgage Loans $12.2 trillion $12.0 trillion $11.7 trillion $10.7 trillion


    * O    riginations are viewed one quarter in arrears to account for reporting lag.
    Click here for additional mortgage industry metrics. Click here for a Q4 2024 mortgage industry infographic.

    Auto originations up year-over-year driven by growth in super prime

    Q4 2024 CIIR Auto Loan Summary

    Originations were up 1.5% YoY in Q3 2024, although they still lagged 14.8% below the pre-pandemic Q3 2019. Super prime borrower originations led the way, up 8.5% YoY for the quarter. This growth was likely driven in part by increasingly available new inventory and increases in incentives. Other risk tiers saw YoY declines in originations, and when compared to 2019 levels, originations remained down across all risk tiers, with subprime seeing the largest decline (down 27.6%). Likely also driven in part by incentives, leasing continued its rebound from its Q4 2022 low (17%), at 24% of new vehicle registrations in Q4 2024. Consumer-level delinquencies of 60+ days past due continued to tick up in Q4 2024 to 1.67%. This represented an increase of 6 basis points YoY. New vehicle vintages continued to show delinquency performance in Q4 2024 consistent with pre-pandemic periods of 2018/2019. Used vehicle vintage delinquencies were slightly improved as compared to the 2022 cohort but remained worse than 2018/2019.

    Instant Analysis

    “Super prime was the underlying driver of auto originations growth in Q4 2024, and will likely continue in 2025. Affordability continues to be an issue for the used vehicle market and for below prime consumers, impacted by higher rates and cross-wallet inflation. This is unlikely to materially improve until we have more certainty around used vehicle inventory and interest rates. Delinquencies have now inched past highs previously seen in 2009, primarily driven by increases among below-prime risk tiers, and we will be monitoring them moving forward.”

    – Satyan Merchant, senior vice president, automotive and mortgage business leader at TransUnion

    Q4 2024 Auto Loan Trends

    Auto Lending Metric Q4 2024 Q4 2023 Q4 2022 Q4 2021
    Total Auto Loan Accounts 80.4 million 80.4 million 80.2 million 81.4 million
    Prior Quarter Originations1 6.4 million 6.3 million 6.5 million 7.2 million
    Average Monthly Payment NEW2 $749 $751 $729 $655
    Average Monthly Payment USED2 $523 $531 $527 $494
    Average Balance per Consumer $24,373 $23,945 $22,998 $21,298
    Average Amount Financed on New Auto Loans2 $42,023 $41,054 $41,941 $40,489
    Average Amount Financed on Used Auto Loans2 $26,135 $26,380 $27,442 $27,346
    Consumer-Level Delinquency Rate (60+ DPD) 1.67% 1.61% 1.43% 1.05%


    1    Note: Originations are viewed one quarter in arrears to account for reporting lag.
    2Data from S&P Global MobilityAutoCreditInsight, Q4 2024 data only for months of October & November.
    Click here for additional auto industry metrics. Click here for a Q4 2024 auto industry infographic.

    For more information about the report, please register for the Q4 2024 Credit Industry Insight Report webinar.

    About TransUnion (NYSE: TRU)

    TransUnion is a global information and insights company with over 13,000 associates operating in more than 30 countries. We make trust possible by ensuring each person is reliably represented in the marketplace. We do this with a Tru™ picture of each person: an actionable view of consumers, stewarded with care. Through our acquisitions and technology investments we have developed innovative solutions that extend beyond our strong foundation in core credit into areas such as marketing, fraud, risk and advanced analytics. As a result, consumers and businesses can transact with confidence and achieve great things. We call this Information for Good® — and it leads to economic opportunity, great experiences and personal empowerment for millions of people around the world.

    http://www.transunion.com/business

    Contact Dave Blumberg
      TransUnion
       
    E-mail dblumberg@transunion.com
       
    Telephone  312-972-6646

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Aterian Issues Letter to Shareholders

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SUMMIT, N.J., Feb. 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Aterian, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATER) (“Aterian” or the “Company”), a technology-enabled consumer products company, today issued the following letter to shareholders from Arturo Rodriguez, Chief Executive Officer, and the Company’s Board of Directors.

    Dear Fellow Shareholders:

    While this is our first time writing to you directly, you are always at the forefront of our minds.

    Over the past 18 months, our team has undertaken a comprehensive reassessment of nearly every facet of Aterian’s business model as part of our turnaround strategy. This deep evaluation of our brand portfolio, marketing strategies, inventory management, marketplace operations, supply chain, and overall fixed costs laid the foundation for the strategic initiatives we have implemented. By successfully executing these changes, we have focused, simplified, and stabilized the Company, positioning Aterian to drive long-term shareholder value.

    Although there is still work to be done, we believe that 2025 marks the start of a new and promising chapter for Aterian as we pivot from stabilizing our operations towards sustainable growth.

    2024: A Year of Achievement

    2024 was a year of achievement as we delivered on many of our key objectives which we announced in late 2023. We streamlined our product portfolio to six highly regarded foundational brands—Squatty Potty, hOmeLabs, PurSteam, Mueller Living, Photo Paper Direct, and Healing Solutions—that deliver quality, affordable products to consumers. We also simplified our go-to-market and marketing strategies, improved efficiencies in our marketplace account structures and our supply chain and transitioned from an internally developed tech platform to a best-in-class third-party model, thereby increasing our efficiency, nimbleness, and cost savings. Additionally, we improved our working capital profile by completing our inventory rightsizing and renegotiating and extending our credit facility.

    In late 2024, we launched several new products under our PurSteam and Mueller Living brands, marking an exciting return to our product development efforts. Organic product launches remain an important component of our growth strategy, and we expect to continue these efforts throughout 2025, with a focus on the second half of the year.

    We also continue to deliver on our commitment to implementing an omnichannel sales approach to reach new consumers and remain competitive in the ever-evolving e-commerce landscape. In the fourth quarter of 2024, we began selling products from our hOmeLabs, PurSteam, and Mueller Living brands on Target+, the invitation-only online marketplace of Target Corporation, while expanding product offerings of Squatty Potty on Target+. This complements our established marketplace strength on Amazon.com, Walmart.com, and Mercado Libre in Mexico, as well as our direct-to-consumer websites. We also recently refreshed our PurSteam and Mueller Living websites, modernizing them to match the recent updates of those brands.

    Our Efforts are Yielding Tangible Results

    Our progress was evident in our third quarter 2024 year to date financial results. When compared to the same nine-month period in 2023, we generated significant improvements in gross margin and contribution margin, and narrowed our net loss by $56.3 million, or 84%.

    We also reported positive adjusted EBITDA for both the second and third quarters of 2024.

    At September 30, 2024, our cash flow from operations was $2.2 million, a $10.6 million improvement from the same period in 2023, our credit facility balance declined by $4.4 million from December 31, 2023, and we had cash on hand of $16.1 million.

    Fourth Quarter 2024 Preliminary Results

    This momentum carried into the final quarter of the year. For the fourth quarter of 2024, we now expect to report net revenue between $24.2 million and $25.0 million which is at the higher end of our previous guidance of $22.5 million to $25.5 million. As previously disclosed, we continue to expect that this level of revenue will produce approximately breakeven adjusted EBITDA.

    We expect that our cash position at December 31, 2024 will improve to approximately $18 million from $16.1 million at September 30, 2024, while our credit facility balance is expected to increase slightly from $6.7 million at September 30, 2024 to approximately $6.9 million at December 31, 2024.

    Full Year 2025: From Stability to Growth

    Looking ahead to 2025, we are confident that Aterian will evolve into a growth company, driven by our omnichannel expansion initiatives, organic product launches, and a commitment to prudent capital allocation strategies. In comparison to 2024, we expect to produce higher revenue, along with continuing improvements in operating efficiencies and adjusted EBITDA. More importantly, we believe that our efforts to date have placed us firmly on the path to producing these results on a sustainable basis.

    We believe we have taken a conservative approach in our expectations for 2025 by considering both the potential impact of increased tariffs on Chinese imports, and to a lesser extent, those from Canada, as well as the proactive measures we would implement to mitigate their effects. Our primary strategy to offset these tariffs would be price adjustments on select products, supplemented by additional cost-management initiatives, if deemed necessary. As trade policies evolve, we will continue to monitor developments and adjust our responses, as needed.

    We are continuing our efforts to identify product sourcing alternatives outside of China, wherever possible, in response to the current uncertainty of U.S. trade policies. As we navigate these challenges, we are fortunate to be supported by a strong balance sheet that provides us with the flexibility to adapt as needed while remaining focused on long-term growth and profitability.

    We look forward to providing additional clarity on our plans and outlook for 2025 in connection with our fourth quarter and full year financial results conference call scheduled for mid-March, and keeping you apprised of material developments.

    Looking ahead, the strength of our brands, the influence and accessibility provided by our marketplace relationships, and our passionate, talented and tenacious people will allow us to deliver on our mission to position Aterian to deliver sustainable, long-term shareholder value. We remain grateful for the continuing support of our shareholders. We hope this is the beginning of more frequent communications as we share in the excitement of Aterian’s bright future.

    Best regards,

    Arturo Rodriguez
    Chief Executive Officer

    About Aterian, Inc.
    Aterian, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATER) is a technology-enabled consumer products company that builds and acquires leading e-commerce brands with top selling consumer products, in multiple categories, including home and kitchen appliances, health and wellness and air quality devices. The Company sells across the world’s largest online marketplaces with a focus on Amazon,Walmart and Target in the U.S. and on its own direct to consumer websites. Our primary brands include Squatty Potty, hOmeLabs, Mueller Living, PurSteam, Healing Solutions and Photo Paper Direct. To learn more about Aterian and its brands, visit aterian.io

    Forward Looking Statements
    All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this press release that address activities, events or developments that we expect, believe or anticipate will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements including, in particular, regarding our expectations for growth in 2025, including our omnichannel expansion initiatives, organic product launches and our capital allocation strategies. These forward-looking statements are based on management’s current expectations and beliefs and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties and other factors, all of which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond our control and could cause actual results to differ materially and adversely from those described in the forward-looking statements. These risks include, but are not limited to, those related to our ability to continue as a going concern, our ability to meet financial covenants with our lenders, our ability to maintain and to grow market share in existing and new product categories; our ability to continue to profitably sell the SKUs we operate; our ability to create operating leverage and efficiency when integrating companies that we acquire, including through the use of our team’s expertise, the economies of scale of our supply chain and automation driven by our platform; those related to our ability to grow internationally and through the launch of products under our brands and the acquisition of additional brands; those related to consumer demand, our cash flows, financial condition, forecasting and revenue growth rate; our supply chain including sourcing, manufacturing, warehousing and fulfillment; our ability to manage expenses, working capital and capital expenditures efficiently; our business model and our technology platform; our ability to disrupt the consumer products industry; our ability to generate profitability and stockholder value; international tariffs and trade measures; inventory management, product liability claims, recalls or other safety and regulatory concerns; reliance on third party online marketplaces; seasonal and quarterly variations in our revenue; acquisitions of other companies and technologies and our ability to integrate such companies and technologies with our business; our ability to continue to access debt and equity capital (including on terms advantageous to the Company) and the extent of our leverage; and other factors discussed in the “Risk Factors” section of our most recent periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), all of which you may obtain for free on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

    Although we believe that the expectations reflected in our forward-looking statements are reasonable, we do not know whether our expectations will prove correct. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof, even if subsequently made available by us on our website or otherwise. We do not undertake any obligation to update, amend or clarify these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required under applicable securities laws.

    Contact: 
    The Equity Group

    Devin Sullivan
    Managing Director
    dsullivan@equityny.com

    Conor Rodriguez
    Associate
    crodriguez@equityny.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/fac8af25-1eb0-4a9b-b114-ed58c424cb02

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Sprott Launches Active Gold & Silver Miners ETF

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, Feb. 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Sprott Inc. (“Sprott”) (NYSE/TSX: SII) today announced the launch of the Sprott Active Gold & Silver Miners ETF (Nasdaq: GBUG) (the “Fund” or “GBUG”), an actively managed ETF that aims to provide long-term capital appreciation by investing in shares of gold- and silver-focused companies that are engaged in exploring, developing and mining; or royalty and streaming companies engaged in the financing of gold and silver assets. GBUG’s investment strategy is value-oriented and contrarian.

    “Gold and silver mining stocks have historically been correlated to bullion, but in recent years, they’ve lagged the price of the physical metals,” said John Hathaway, CFA, Managing Partner, Sprott and Senior Portfolio Manager, Sprott Asset Management USA, Inc. “Gold and silver mining stocks could offer significant catch-up potential.”

    GBUG is Sprott’s first active ETF, which offers the opportunity to invest in miners with the potential advantage of active stock picking from a global leader with over four decades of specialized expertise in precious metals and mining investments. “Given the operational complexities of mining, investors may benefit from an active ETF strategy focused on long-term business fundamentals and growth potential,” said Whitney George, Chief Executive Officer of Sprott. “The Fund’s investment team is experienced. The team has more than 100 years of collective experience in metals and mining, and it conducts more than 200 management meetings annually, along with periodic site visits to mining operations around the globe.”

    GBUG combines the expertise of active management with the flexibility of an ETF, which includes daily transparency, liquidity and potential tax efficiency. GBUG is one of four Sprott Precious Metals ETFs:

    Sprott Active Gold & Silver Miners ETF Nasdaq: GBUG An actively managed ETF that aims to provide long-term capital appreciation by investing in shares of gold- and silver-focused companies that are engaged in exploring, developing and mining; or royalty and streaming companies engaged in the financing of gold and silver assets. The investment strategy of the Fund is value-oriented and contrarian.
    Sprott Gold Miners ETF NYSE Arca: SGDM Seeks investment results that correspond (before fees and expenses) generally to the performance of its underlying index, the Solactive Gold Miners Custom Factors Index (Index Ticker: SOLGMCFT). The Index aims to track the performance of larger-sized gold companies whose stocks are listed on Canadian and major U.S. exchanges.
    Sprott Junior Gold Miners ETF NYSE Arca: SGDJ Seeks investment results that correspond (before fees and expenses) generally to the performance of its underlying index, the Solactive Junior Gold Miners Custom Factors Index (Ticker: SOLJGMFT). The Index aims to track the performance of small-capitalization gold companies whose stocks are listed on regulated exchanges.
    Sprott Silver Miners & Physical Silver ETF Nasdaq: SLVR Seeks investment results that correspond (before fees and expenses) generally to the performance of its underlying index, Nasdaq Sprott Silver Miners™ Index (NSLVR™), by investing at least 80% of its total assets in securities of NSLVR. The Nasdaq Sprott Silver Miners Index is designed to track the performance of a selection of securities in the silver industry, including silver producers, developers and explorers, and physical silver.

    * Based on Morningstar’s universe of Precious Metals Sector Equity ETFs as of 2/19/2025.

    About Sprott Inc.

    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.

    Contact:
    Glen Williams
    Managing Partner
    Investor and Institutional Client Relations
    Direct: (416) 943-43945
    gwilliams@sprott.com

    Dan Gagnier
    Gagnier Communications
    Direct: (646) 569-5897
    sprott@gagnierfc.com

    Important Disclosures

    An investor should consider the investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses of each fund carefully before investing. To obtain a fund’s Prospectus, which contains this and other information, contact your financial professional, call 1.888.622.1813 or visit SprottETFs.com. Read the Prospectus carefully before investing.

    Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) are considered to have continuous liquidity because they allow for an individual to trade throughout the day, which may indicate higher transaction costs and result in higher taxes when fund shares are held in a taxable account.

    The funds are non-diversified and can invest a greater portion of assets in securities of individual issuers, particularly those in the natural resources and/or precious metals industry, which may experience greater price volatility. Relative to other sectors, natural resources and precious metals investments have higher headline risk and are more sensitive to changes in economic data, political or regulatory events, and underlying commodity price fluctuations. Risks related to extraction, storage and liquidity should also be considered.

    Shares are not individually redeemable. Investors buy and sell shares of the funds on a secondary market. Only market makers or “authorized participants” may trade directly with the fund, typically in blocks of 10,000 shares.

    The Sprott Active Gold & Silver Miners and Sprott Silver Miners & Physical Silver ETFs are new and have limited operating history.

    Sprott Asset Management USA, Inc. is the Investment Adviser to the Sprott Active Gold & Silver Miners ETF. ALPS Distributors, Inc. is the Distributor for the Sprott ETFs and is a registered broker-dealer and FINRA Member.

    ALPS Distributors, Inc. is not affiliated with Sprott Asset Management USA, Inc.

    © 2025 Sprott Inc. All rights reserved.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: KnowBe4 Earns a Top Spot on G2’s 2025 Best Software Awards

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TAMPA BAY, FL, Feb. 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — KnowBe4, the world-renowned cybersecurity platform that comprehensively addresses human risk management, today announced it has been named to G2’s 2025 Best Software Awards, placing #1 on the Security Product and #2 on Overall Software Product for its security awareness training (SAT). As the world’s largest and most trusted software marketplace, G2 reaches 100 million buyers annually. Its annual Best Software Awards rank the world’s best software companies and products based on authentic, timely reviews from real users.  ​​

    Receiving this Best Software Award recognition validates KnowBe4’s efforts to empower organizations to strengthen their security culture and transform their workforce from a security vulnerability into their strongest line of defense. KnowBe4 SAT was recognized on the following G2 Awards Lists: Best Security Software Products 2025, Best Software Products 2025 and Best Highest Satisfaction Products 2025.

    “Being recognized as the number one Security Product and number two Overall Software Product by G2 underscores the transformative impact of our Human Risk Management platform,” said Stu Sjouwerman, CEO at KnowBe4. “This achievement reflects our commitment to innovation and excellence in helping organizations address the human element of security. The fact that these rankings are based on authentic customer feedback validates our strategic vision of enabling organizations to build resilient security cultures and effectively manage human risk across their entire workforce. We are grateful for the trust our customers place in us and remain dedicated to delivering offerings that make a measurable difference in their security culture”.

    “The stakes for choosing the right business software are higher than ever,” said Godard Abel, co-founder & CEO at G2. “With over 180,000 software products and services listings and 2.8 million verified user reviews in the G2 marketplace,  we’re proud to help companies navigate these critical choices with insights rooted in authentic customer feedback. The 2025 Best Software Award winners represent the very best in the industry, standing out for their exceptional performance and customer satisfaction. Congratulations to this year’s honorees!”

    G2’s 2025 Best Software Awards feature dozens of lists, ranking software vendors and products using G2’s proprietary algorithm based on G2’s verified user reviews and publicly available market presence data. To be eligible for the Best Software Awards, a software company or product must have received at least one approved review during the 2024 calendar year and appear on a G2 Grid®. Scores reflect only data from reviews submitted during this evaluation period.

    To learn more, view G2’s 2025 Best Software Awards and read more about G2’s methodology.

    For more information on KnowBe4, visit www.knowbe4.com.

    About G2
    G2 is the world’s largest and most trusted software marketplace. More than 100 million people annually — including employees at all Fortune 500 companies — use G2 to make smarter software decisions based on authentic peer reviews. Thousands of software and services companies of all sizes partner with G2 to build their reputation and grow their business — including Salesforce, HubSpot, Zoom, and Adobe. To learn more about where you go for software, visit www.g2.com and follow us on X and LinkedIn.

    About KnowBe4
    KnowBe4 empowers workforces to make smarter security decisions every day. Trusted by over 70,000 organizations worldwide, KnowBe4 helps to strengthen security culture and manage human risk. KnowBe4 offers a comprehensive AI-driven ‘best-of-suite’ platform for Human Risk Management, creating an adaptive defense layer that fortifies user behavior against the latest cybersecurity threats. The HRM+ platform includes modules for awareness & compliance training, cloud email security, real-time coaching, crowdsourced anti-phishing, AI Defense Agents, and more. As the only global security platform of its kind, KnowBe4 utilizes personalized and relevant cybersecurity protection content, tools and techniques to mobilize workforces to transform from the largest attack surface to an organization’s biggest asset.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: authID’s Biometric Authentication and Groundbreaking Privacy Solutions Spotlighted in New Prism Project Report

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Dedicated findings highlight authID’s leadership in fast, frictionless, and accurate processes that do not compromise on compliance or privacy

    DENVER, Feb. 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — authID (Nasdaq: AUID), a leading provider of biometric identity verification and authentication solutions, today announced its spotlight in a comprehensive independent market report by the Prism Project, which provided important independent analysis of authID’s approach to privacy- and compliance-first biometric authentication. authID was named a “luminary” for its leading-edge platform for biometric identity verification and privacy protection.

    Published by Acuity Market Intelligence, the leading biometric digital identity research consultancy, the report titled “Biometric Digital Identity Prism Custom Report: authID” highlights how authID’s newly launched PrivacyKey™ technology reflects a paradigm shift in biometric authentication, powerfully addressing the critical balance between security and privacy. The platform boasts a one-in-one-billion false-match accuracy rate in identity verification while maintaining zero-knowledge architecture for user data protection by storing no biometric data, and joins authID solutions Proof™ and Verified™ in providing customers with an unparalleled user-identification experience.

    “authID’s technology is interesting because it isn’t just about security – it’s about creating trust in digital interactions,” said Maxine Most, founder of the Prism Project and Acuity Market Intelligence. “As the Prism Project projects a 300% growth in demand for privacy-focused biometric solutions over the next three years, authID’s platform is at the forefront of successfully bridging the gap between robust security and user privacy, and of setting new industry standards for biometric authentication.”

    Key Findings from the Prism Project Report:

    • authID’s innovative approach is “safeguarding the era of digitization” through liveness-supported face biometrics during the onboarding process as well as continuous identity verification.
    • authID’s proven leadership—composed of identity-industry veterans with decades of experience—are driving consistent adaptations and innovations in a rapidly evolving and increasingly critical landscape.
    • The verification speeds, key-management capabilities, and frictionless ease-of-use at the center of authID’s solutions position it as a leader in both performance and customer experience.

    The report highlights authID’s recent partnership with Salus, which aims to enhance credit union services for 120 million underserved individuals, demonstrating the platform’s scalability and real-world impact. authID’s innovative approach has also attracted partnerships with leading financial institutions and technology companies, as well as firms in the staffing and hiring, philanthropy, and customer-service industries.

    “The Prism Project findings validate our commitment to revolutionary identity verification solutions that prioritize both security and user privacy,” said Rhon Daguro, CEO of authID. “Our PrivacyKey™ technology represents a quantum leap forward in biometric authentication, enabling businesses to provide frictionless security while maintaining the highest standards of data protection.”

    The dedicated authID report follows the December 2024 release of the Prism Project’s highly anticipated Biometric Digital Identity Flagship Report, which evaluated more than 250 industry players and identified the key market dynamics driving extraordinary growth in the emerging global digital identity ecosystem. The annual report highlights the critical role of biometrics in reducing fraud, improving operational efficiency, preserving privacy, and enhancing user experience in the era of digital transformation.

    For more information about authID’s biometric authentication solutions, visit www.authid.ai.

    About authID

    authID (Nasdaq: AUID) ensures enterprises “Know Who’s Behind the Device™” for every customer or employee login and transaction through its easy-to-integrate, patented, biometric identity platform. authID quickly and accurately verifies a user’s identity and eliminates any assumption of ‘who’ is behind a device to prevent cybercriminals from compromising account openings or taking over accounts. Combining secure digital onboarding, biometric authentication, and account recovery with a fast, accurate, user-friendly experience, authID delivers biometric identity processing in 700ms. With our ground-breaking PrivacyKey Solution authID delivers all the benefits of biometric identity verification, with a 1-to-1-billion false match rate, while storing no biometric data. Binding a biometric root of trust for each user to their account, authID stops fraud at onboarding, detects and stops deepfakes, prevents account takeover, eliminates password risks and costs, and provides the fastest, most frictionless, and most accurate user identity experience demanded by today’s digital ecosystem. Contact us to discover how authID can help your organization secure your workforce or consumer applications against identity fraud, cyberattacks and account takeover.

    About The Prism Project

    The Prism Project (www.the-prism-project.com) is at the forefront of biometric and digital identity research and education. Created by Acuity Market Intelligence, it bridges the gap between identity technology experts and organizations seeking innovative solutions for digital transformation. Through industry collaboration and comprehensive research, The Prism Project empowers influencers and decision-makers to forge a secure, human-centric digital identity future.

    About Acuity Market Intelligence

    Acuity Market Intelligence (www.acuitymi.com) is a trusted research and strategic advisory firm specializing in biometrics, identity, and digital transformation. Known for delivering actionable insights and proprietary market forecasts, Acuity helps organizations navigate the rapidly evolving digital identity landscape with confidence and clarity.

    For further information, interviews, sponsor inquiries, or to download Prism reports, please visit www.the-prism-project.com or contact info@the-prism-project.com.

    Media Contacts

    NextTech Communications
     Walter Fowler
    1-631-334-3864
    wfowler@nexttechcomms.com

    Investor Relations Contacts
    Investor-Relations@authid.ai

    Gateway Group, Inc.
    Cody Slach and Alex Thompson
    1-949-574-3860
    AUID@gateway-grp.com

    Acuity Market Intelligence
    Maxine Most
    1-303-449-1897
    info@the-prism-project.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Monarch Private Capital Powers Into 2025 With Record Growth, Innovation, and a Bold Vision for the Future

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ATLANTA, Feb. 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —  Monarch Private Capital, a national leader in impact investing, is redefining the future of tax equity investments with a landmark year of achievements in 2024. By strategically expanding its efforts across affordable housing, renewable energy, historic rehabilitation, and film, Monarch is not only generating billions in economic development but also driving transformative change in communities nationwide.

    As demand for sustainable solutions and responsible investing reaches new heights, Monarch continues to lead the charge—investing in projects that create jobs, reduce carbon footprints, and provide critical housing solutions. With a new $275 million bond issuance, an innovative solar and battery storage initiative for low-income housing, and record-breaking project investments, Monarch is setting the stage for even greater impact in 2025 and beyond.

    Unprecedented Growth Across Key Sectors In 2024

    • Renewable Energy: 75 new projects, generating $1.5 billion in tax credits and enabling $3.3 billion in clean energy investments—adding 1.7 GW of renewable energy capacity to the U.S. grid. This prevents an annual abatement of 1,530,807 metric tons of CO₂e emissions—equivalent to removing 319,014 homes’ electricity use for one year.
    • Affordable Housing: 23 new projects, unlocking $268 million in tax credits and $747 million in project capital, creating 2,429 affordable homes for families in need.
    • Historic Rehabilitation: 18 revitalization projects, bringing nearly $60 million in tax credits and over $500 million in redevelopment costs, breathing new life into historic properties—many in underserved communities.
    • New $275 Million Bond Issuance: Financing affordable housing projects to help close the housing gap in the U.S., ensuring more families have access to safe, stable homes.
    • Film & Entertainment: Brokered and financed $169 million in state tax credits for film, tv, and digital media, supporting 49 productions nationwide. These projects contributed to over $650 million in local production spending, driving economic growth and energizing creative industries across the U.S.  

    Fueling the Future: Clean Energy Meets Affordable Housing

    With an unwavering commitment to innovation, Monarch is redefining affordable housing through its groundbreaking Monarch Strategic Ventures initiative.

    This forward-thinking program is integrating solar energy and battery storage into low-income housing income (LMI) communities—targeting a 20% reduction in tenant’s electricity bills while making affordable housing more sustainable. But the impact goes beyond cost savings:

    • Creating new construction jobs during installation
    • Generating ongoing employment in operations, maintenance, and administrative roles
    • Reducing environmental impact while improving energy resilience for vulnerable communities
    • Enhancing grid flexibility to balance burgeoning electricity demand growth

    “We don’t just invest in projects—we invest in people, communities, and the future,” said George Strobel, Partner, Co-Founder, and Co-CEO of Monarch Private Capital. “With the launch of our $275 million bond initiative and our expansion into clean energy housing solutions, we are scaling our impact like never before. We are building a stronger, more sustainable, and more equitable future—one investment at a time.”

    Monarch’s Legacy: A $37 Billion Economic Impact

    Since 2005, Monarch Private Capital has turned tax equity investments into real-world impact, delivering:

    • Nearly 50,000 affordable housing units built
    • More than 300,000 jobs created
    • 4.7 GW of renewable energy capacity to the U.S. grid, preventing an annual abatement of 4,157,534 metric tons of CO₂e emissions—equivalent to removing C02 emissions from 866,412 homes’ electricity use for one year 
    • The revitalization of 187 historic buildings
    • $7.2 billion in tax credits leveraged across 42 states and Washington, D.C.
    • $18 billion in project capital mobilized

    And the momentum is only growing.

    By combining financial expertise with a bold vision for the future, Monarch Private Capital is positioned to drive unprecedented impact in 2025—expanding access to affordable housing, accelerating the transition to clean energy, and strengthening communities across America.

    Join the Movement.

    For more information, please contact George Strobel at gstrobel@monarchprivate.com.

    About Monarch Private Capital

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

    CONTACT

    Jane Rafeedie

    Monarch Private Capital

    Jrafeedie@monarchprivate.com

    470-283-8431

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/86597a51-4a44-469c-9ca3-69f62b265d4e

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Atos successfully deploys new, innovative sport technologies during the Winter European Youth Olympic Festival Bakuriani 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

                                                                    News

    Atos successfully deploys new, innovative sport technologies during the Winter European Youth Olympic Festival Bakuriani 2025

    New, integrated technologies contributed to the event success and are now field-proven, ready to be deployed at a larger scale.

    Bakuriani, Georgia, and Paris, France, February 20, 2025 – Atos, a global leader in digital transformation and the Technology Partner of the Winter European Youth Olympic Festival (EYOF) Bakuriani 2025, today announces that its innovative IT services contributed to the success of the event from February 9 to 16, 2025. Atos delivered a comprehensive suite of digital services that enhanced fan experience, optimized event operations, and brought the Festival closer to audiences across Europe.

    Atos provided traditional Timing and Results services, ensuring accuracy and efficiency across all sports. It also powered the official event website and mobile application, a real-time results information system, and an interactive database allowing fans and stakeholders to effortlessly access key statistics and insights. Atos enabled the live streaming production and distribution of all competitions, enabling rights-holding broadcasters and media partners to seamlessly share the action with audiences worldwide.

    The Winter European Youth Olympic Festival was also the opportunity for Atos and the organizing committee to showcase innovative technologies which deepened the experience, immersion and engagement of stakeholders.

    • Artificial Intelligence (AI) powered Media Center for press and stakeholders

    During the event, Atos provided for the first time exclusive, automated and AI-powered media clips and highlights to official stakeholders, including Olympic Committees, federations, and accredited media outlets across Europe. Through a password-protected content management system, users could submit natural language requests for read-to-use video clips about an athlete, a sport, a result or a game situation, users received a corresponding ready-to-use video clip. The Atos AI-powered Media Center then automatically recovered, edited and customized footage for each type of user. This breakthrough technology is expected to incredibly speed up video dissemination for major events worldwide.

    • On- and Off-site immersion

    In collaboration with the Organizing Committee, an innovative solution has been developed to keep onsite attendees and online users informed about live events. The system combines real-time results with video highlights, providing a complete overview of ongoing competitions on a single screen. News feeds were also broadcast on giant screens at event venues, ensuring an immersive experience for all spectators.

    • An AI-powered chatbot

    The AI-powered chatbot designed to answer fan inquiries about Georgia, the Festival, and historical results, has proven its efficiency by providing instant, reliable information throughout the event.

    • SportEurope integrated, unified platform

    Atos developed SportEurope for the European Olympic Committees (EOC), an online fan ecosystem that integrates the event’s web presence, social media domains and marketing automation systems, ensuring continuous engagement with sports enthusiasts across Europe. Through strategic content creation in collaboration with athletes, European National Olympic Committees and European sports federations, SportEurope fosters a vibrant community around the Games.

    Atos developed the Winter Crystal gaming experience, a mobile game that places players in digitized environments of Georgian landmarks and EYOF venues. This interactive adventure involves solving games and completing challenges to explore the spirit of the Games while competing for the prestigious Winter Crystal award.

    “We are delighted that our technologies were instrumental in the success of the European Youth Olympic Festival” said Nacho Moros, Head of Atos Major Events. “This inspiring event was also the perfect venue to introduce new and innovative solutions and continue to set new benchmarks in digital transformation for major sporting events. We are confident these field-proven technologies will soon be deployed in world-class events”.

    “Atos provided a high level of professional service and made a significant contribution to the success of the Bakuriani 2025 Olympic Festival”, said Zurab Tuskia, Head of IT & Accreditation, EYOF Bakuriani 2025 OC. “We would like to thank Atos for their professional support, which was demonstrated through the prompt resolution of any issues that arose throughout our time together, as well as for the strong and friendly relationship that was formed between the IT department and the Atos team during the Olympic Festival.”         

    Key figures:

    • 8 sports operated, 5 venues in 3 host cities (Bakuriani, Batumi and Tbilisi).
    • Atos staff: 56 on site plus 10 on remote support
    • over 30 days on site operations.
    • over 150 laptops, 70 mobile phones, and Sport Specific devices.
    • 3.334 accreditations
    • over 200 live streaming hours.

    Digital achievements:

    • over 1 million Instagram views, 60,000 TikTok views, 60,000+ visits to sporteurope.org
    • AI-generated articles ranked among the Top 7 most viewed pages.
    • 2,000 active users on the app.
    • over 200 active users for the Winter Crystal mobile game.
    • over 100 users accessing the Gaudi multimedia repository & over 550 downloads. Notable users include over 40 European National Olympic Committees, Local Organizing Committees and Sport Federations.
    • 30% of Sport Europe users are opening the Email Marketing emails.

    Atos has been serving its partners and customers through a dedicated in-house sports and major events division (“Major Events”) for over 30 years, giving it an unmatched experience and the flexibility to serve its customers regardless of their exposure, size and scale. From global events to local competitions, Atos consistently strives to deliver technology excellence to its entire customer base. 

    Atos has been involved with the Olympic Movement since 1992 and the Paralympic Movement since 2002 and is the Official Digital Technology Partner of the European Olympic Committees, including the European Games 2027, as well as the official Digital partner for Special Olympics International. In addition, the company is also the Official Information Technology Partner of UEFA National Team Football. Most recently, Atos has been instrumental in delivering successful leading-edge IT services for iconic events such as UEFA EURO 2024™ in Germany and the Olympic and Paralympic Games Paris 2024. 

    To learn more about Atos solutions for sporting events and major events, visit Atos major events. 

    ***

    About European Youth Olympics Festival Bakuriani 2025

    The EOC is an international non-governmental not-for-profit organization whose objective is to propagate the fundamental principles of Olympism at European level. Held under the patronage of the IOC, and the pride of the European Olympic Committees with almost 35 years of tradition, the EYOF is the first top European multi-sport event aimed at young athletes aged 14 to 18. There is a winter and a summer edition, which take place in two-year cycles, in odd-numbered years.

    The event is rich with Olympic traditions: from the burning flame to athletes’ and officials’ oaths. It is at the EYOF that many of Europe’s aspiring sports stars take their first steps on the international stage. And while some may look to the EYOF as a stepping-stone to Olympic greatness, all who participate take home friendships and experiences to last a lifetime.

    About Atos

    Atos is a global leader in digital transformation with c. 82,000 employees and annual revenue of c. € 10 billion. European number one in cybersecurity, cloud and high-performance computing, the Group provides tailored end-to-end solutions for all industries in 69 countries. A pioneer in decarbonization services and products, Atos is committed to a secure and decarbonized digital for its clients. Atos is a SE (Societas Europaea) and listed on Euronext Paris.

    The purpose of Atos is to help design the future of the information space. Its expertise and services support the development of knowledge, education and research in a multicultural approach and contribute to the development of scientific and technological excellence. Across the world, the Group enables its customers and employees, and members of societies at large to live, work and develop sustainably, in a safe and secure information space.

    Press contact
    Laurent Massicot | laurent.massicot@atos.net | +33 (0)7 69 48 01 80

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: OSS Announces $6 Million in Combined Platform Contract Renewals for Two Existing U.S. Department of Defense Programs

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Renewals include a $4 million contract for radar processing on the P-8A Poseidon Aircraft and a $2 million contract to upgrade sonar sensor processing for the Virginia Class Submarine

    Orders reflect OSS’ leadership in providing PCIe technologies and flash storage solutions for demanding, ruggedized, and high-performance compute applications that are needed for the modern battlefield

    ESCONDIDO, Calif., Feb. 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — One Stop Systems, Inc. (OSS or the Company) (Nasdaq: OSS), a leader in rugged Enterprise Class compute for artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML) and sensor processing at the edge, today announced two contract renewals under longstanding U.S. Department of Defense platform programs. Renewals include an approximate $4 million contract to support data recording for radar sensor processing on the P-8A Poseidon Reconnaissance Aircraft, including a 5-year support contract and an approximate $2 million contract to upgrade sonar sensor processing for the Virginia Class Submarine. OSS expects design and production elements to occur in the second half of 2025.

    “We are pleased to announce two program renewals, highlighting our recurring incumbent platform positions and the proven hardware and software capabilities we have created for demanding military applications. These longstanding programs face periodic technology upgrade cycles, and receiving contract renewals is a testament to the continual value we provide in delivering high-performance edge computing solutions. These platform positions are critical components of our long-term strategic plan, and based on our current pipeline, we hope to announce additional platform opportunities in the coming quarters,” stated OSS President and CEO, Mike Knowles.

    P-8A Poseidon Aircraft Renewal and Tech Refresh
    The approximate $4 million in awards include a follow-on production order, a tech refresh contract to expand the scope of the OSS software provided as part of the current $36 million, 5-year sole-source supplier agreement, and a 5-year extension for support. This agreement involves equipping the Navy’s P-8A reconnaissance aircraft and ground base stations with high-capacity flash storage systems, spare flash storage canisters, and support services.

    Designed and manufactured by OSS, these full military-spec storage systems feature hot-swappable canisters of high-capacity NVMe flash storage that may be easily removed and securely transported to ground stations upon the aircraft’s return to base. Controlled by the Company’s exclusive Ion Accelerator™ storage software, these flash storage arrays store high volumes of real-time data collected from the aircraft’s advanced airborne sensors comprised of multifunction radar and associated tracking systems.

    Virginia Class Submarine Renewal
    The approximate $2 million project is a renewal of a sole-source supplier agreement that OSS has been operating under since 2010. The agreement, through a major defense contractor, involves equipping the U.S. Navy’s Virginia Class submarine with PCIe infrastructure that supports sonar sensor processing capabilities. OSS won a contract to upgrade the PCIe accelerator systems with newer PCIe technology that will support the program for at least another 10 years. Prototypes for the upgraded accelerators will be delivered in early 2025, with production systems later in 2025.

    About One Stop Systems
    One Stop Systems, Inc. (Nasdaq: OSS) is a leader in AI enabled solutions for the demanding ‘edge’. OSS designs and manufactures Enterprise Class compute and storage products that enable rugged AI, sensor fusion and autonomous capabilities without compromise. These hardware and software platforms bring the latest data center performance to harsh and challenging applications, whether they are on land, sea or in the air.

    OSS products include ruggedized servers, compute accelerators, flash storage arrays, and storage acceleration software. These specialized compact products are used across multiple industries and applications, including autonomous trucking and farming, as well as aircraft, drones, ships and vehicles within the defense industry.

    OSS solutions address the entire AI workflow, from high-speed data acquisition to deep learning, training and large-scale inference, and have delivered many industry firsts for industrial OEM and government customers.

    As the fastest growing segment of the multi-billion-dollar edge computing market, AI enabled solutions require-and OSS delivers-the highest level of performance in the most challenging environments without compromise.

    OSS products are available directly or through global distributors. For more information, go to www.onestopsystems.com. You can also follow OSS on X, YouTube, and LinkedIn.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    One Stop Systems cautions you that statements in this press release that are not a description of historical facts are forward-looking statements. These statements are based on the Company’s current beliefs and expectations. The inclusion of forward-looking statements should not be regarded as a representation by One Stop Systems or its partners that any of our plans or expectations will be achieved, including but not limited to the potential and/or the results of program renewals with defense contractors and the U.S. Department of Defense, any actual revenue derived from the agreements, the future adoption of technologies or applications, and the expansion of the Company’s offerings and/or relationship with different branches of the U.S. Armed Forces. Actual results may differ from those set forth in this press release due to the risk and uncertainties inherent in our business, including risks described in our prior press releases and in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), including under the heading “Risk Factors” in our latest Annual Report on Form 10-K and any subsequent filings with the SEC. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof, and the company undertakes no obligation to revise or update this press release to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof. All forward-looking statements are qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement, which is made under the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.

    Media Contacts:
    Robert Kalebaugh
    One Stop Systems, Inc.
    Tel (858) 518-6154
    Email contact

    Investor Relations:
    Andrew Berger
    Managing Director
    SM Berger & Company, Inc.
    Tel (216) 464-6400
    Email contact

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Sophos and Pax8 Announce Strategic Partnership to Streamline Security Management

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    OXFORD, United Kingdom, and DENVER, Feb. 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Sophos, a global leader of innovative security solutions for defeating cyberattacks, today announced a strategic partnership with Pax8, the leading cloud commerce marketplace. The collaboration introduces the most comprehensive portfolio of cybersecurity solutions available to Pax8’s network of more than 40,000 managed service providers (MSPs). MSPs in the Pax8 network now have a complete one-stop shop of best-in-class cybersecurity solutions available from a single vendor – including Sophos Managed Detection and Response (MDR), Sophos Endpoint powered by Intercept X and Sophos Firewall. This revolutionizes opportunities for channel partners to streamline operations, simplify billing and significantly reduce the complexity of cybersecurity management across customers.

    According to the Sophos MSP Perspectives 2024 report, MSPs that consolidate their security stack with a single vendor can cut daily security management time by nearly 50% – a savings that jumps to 69% for those juggling six or more security vendors. By partnering with Pax8, Sophos is removing a key operational barrier for MSPs, enabling them to seamlessly manage cybersecurity through a single vendor platform to streamline solution integration and enhance efficiency while strengthening their security posture and simplifying cloud procurement cycles.

    “Sophos and Pax8 are strongly aligned in our mission to empower MSPs with best-in-class end-to-end security services and products while simplifying lifecycle management of these solutions and reducing operational overhead. MSPs want to align with vendors who are easy to work with and this agreement will make it even easier for MSPs to work with Sophos, something we’ve long been committed to,” said Joe Levy, CEO of Sophos. “With cybersecurity, speed and innovation are essential for defending against attackers. This partnership with Pax8 accelerates MSP access to critical cybersecurity tools, enabling them to better protect their customers in an increasingly complex and volatile threat landscape.”

    Key advantages of the Sophos and Pax8 partnership for MSPs include:

    • Driving new revenue opportunities for partners by providing the most comprehensive portfolio of security offerings by a single vendor on the Pax8 Marketplace.
    • Reducing overhead costs and freeing up partners’ billable hours by simplifying procurement and billing via a fully integrated Pax8 Marketplace experience.
    • Empowering partners with seamless experiences through coordinated MSP enablement, support and sales training initiatives.
    • Compatible and comprehensive 24/7 security for MSPs’ Microsoft Defender customers with Sophos’ MDR service for Microsoft environments.

    “MSPs today need solutions that align with the way they operate—cloud-first, flexible and easy to manage at scale. Pax8 is revolutionizing the way MSPs access and deploy cloud-based solutions, and cybersecurity is an important piece of the overall stack,” said Scott Chasin, Chief Executive Officer of Pax8. “By bringing Sophos’ innovative security offerings to our marketplace, Pax8 is providing our partners with access to enterprise-grade security solutions for their SMB customers in a way that simplifies management, reduces risk and drives profitability.”

    Comprehensive Security, Unparalleled Efficiency
    “MSPs say they could cut day to day management time almost in half by consolidating on a single cybersecurity platform – and Sophos enables them to achieve that goal. By managing all their customers’ cybersecurity in the cloud-based Sophos Central platform, MSPs can reduce workload and free up valuable billing hours,” said Raja Patel, Chief Product Officer, Sophos. “What’s more, with a complete portfolio of Sophos cybersecurity solutions at their fingertips, Pax8 MSPs enjoy extensive opportunities to sell additional revenue-generating products and services that meet their clients’ evolving cybersecurity needs.”

    Backed by real-time threat intelligence from Sophos X-Ops, a global team of elite threat hunters and security analysts, Sophos’ solutions provide proactive, AI-driven protection against cyberattacks. As the leading pure-play cybersecurity provider of MDR services, Sophos protects over 28,000 organizations globally. Insights from Sophos MDR further strengthens security by providing MSPs and their customers with unparalleled protection. Automated threat detection, managed response, and deep security insights across Sophos’s portfolios equip MSPs to enhance defenses, minimize risk exposure, deliver enterprise-grade protection and cut through the noise to reduce management complexity. 

    Better security for Microsoft environments

    More than 60% of Sophos MDR’s customers are managed via MSPs, giving Sophos unparalleled insights into attacks on MSP-managed environments. Sophos leverages these learnings to update customers’ defenses in real-time, optimizing their protection from ever-evolving attacks and providing peace of mind to both clients and partners. Furthermore, with Sophos’s robust MDR service for Microsoft environments, Pax8 MSPs can elevate the security of clients using Microsoft Defender while enabling their customers to see greater return on their Microsoft investments.

    The Sophos MDR service through Pax8 supports MSPs in several ways. They can either leverage Sophos’ managed service completely or to augment their customers’ in-house department, including coverage on nights and weekends, which are critical times to defend networks because they are when attackers often strike. For MSPs that provide in-house MDR services, the new AI Assistant in Sophos XDR enables operators of all skill levels to neutralize adversaries faster with existing threat investigation and response intelligence from frontline Sophos MDR analysts. 

    Availability 
    The Sophos offering will be available on the Pax8 Marketplace starting February 28, 2025. Pax8 partners interested in learning more about Sophos offerings coming to the Pax8 Marketplace can learn more and sign up at www.sophos.com/msp.

    About Sophos
    Sophos is a global leader and innovator of advanced security solutions for defeating cyberattacks. The company acquired Secureworks in February 2025, bringing together two pioneers that have redefined the cybersecurity industry with their innovative, native AI-optimized services, technologies and products. Sophos is now the largest pure-play Managed Detection and Response (MDR) provider, supporting more than 28,000 organizations. In addition to MDR and other services, Sophos’ complete portfolio includes industry-leading endpoint, network, email, and cloud security that interoperate and adapt to defend through the Sophos Central platform. Secureworks provides the innovative, market-leading Taegis XDR/MDR, identity threat detection and response (ITDR), next-gen SIEM capabilities, managed risk, and a comprehensive set of advisory services. Sophos sells all these solutions through reseller partners, Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs) worldwide, defending more than 600,000 organizations worldwide from phishing, ransomware, data theft, other every day and state-sponsored cybercrimes. The solutions are powered by historical and real-time threat intelligence from Sophos X-Ops and the newly added Counter Threat Unit (CTU). Sophos is headquartered in Oxford, U.K. More information is available at www.sophos.com.

    About Pax8
    Pax8 is the technology marketplace of the future, linking partners, vendors, and small to midsized businesses (SMBs) through AI-powered insights and comprehensive product support. With a global partner ecosystem of over 40,000 managed service providers, Pax8 empowers SMBs worldwide by providing software and services that unlock their growth potential and enhance their security. Committed to innovating cloud commerce at scale, Pax8 drives customer acquisition and solution consumption across its entire ecosystem.
    Follow Pax8 on Blog, Facebook, LinkedIn, X, and YouTube. 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Our research on dark web forums reveals the growing threat of AI-generated child abuse images

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Simon Bailey, Chair, International Policing and Public Protection Research Institute, Anglia Ruskin University

    Ventura/Shutterstock

    The UK aims to be the first country in the world to create new offences related to AI-generated sexual abuse. New laws will make it illegal to possess, create or distribute AI tools designed to generate child sexual abuse material (CSAM), punishable by up to five years in prison. The laws will also make it illegal for anyone to possess so-called “paedophile manuals” which teach people how to use AI to sexually abuse children.

    In the last few decades, the threat against children from online abuse has multiplied at a concerning rate. According to the Internet Watch Foundation, which tracks down and removes abuse from the internet, there has been an 830% rise in online child sexual abuse imagery since 2014. The prevalence of AI image generation tools is fuelling this further.

    Last year, we at the International Policing and Protection Research Institute at Anglia Ruskin University published a report on the growing demand for AI-generated child sexual abuse material online.

    Researchers analysed chats that took place in dark web forums over the previous 12 months. We found evidence of growing interest in this technology, and of online offenders’ desire for others to learn more and create abuse images.

    Horrifyingly, forum members referred to those creating the AI-imagery as “artists”. This technology is creating a new world of opportunity for offenders to create and share the most depraved forms of child abuse content.

    Our analysis showed that members of these forums are using non-AI-generated images and videos already at their disposal to facilitate their learning and train the software they use to create the images. Many expressed their hopes and expectations that the technology would evolve, making it even easier for them to create this material.

    Dark web spaces are hidden and only accessible through specialised software. They provide offenders with anonymity and privacy, making it difficult for law enforcement to identify and prosecute them.

    The Internet Watch Foundation has documented concerning statistics about the rapid increase in the number of AI-generated images they encounter as part of their work. The volume remains relatively low in comparison to the scale of non-AI images that are being found, but the numbers are growing at an alarming rate.

    The charity reported in October 2023 that a total of 20,254 AI generated imaged were uploaded in a month to one dark web forum. Before this report was published, little was known about the threat.

    The harms of AI abuse

    The perception among offenders is that AI-generated child sexual abuse imagery is a victimless crime, because the images are not “real”. But it is far from harmless, firstly because it can be created from real photos of children, including images that are completely innocent.

    While there is a lot we don’t yet know about the impact of AI-generated abuse specifically, there is a wealth of research on the harms of online child sexual abuse, as well as how technology is used to perpetuate or worsen the impact of offline abuse. For example, victims may have continuing trauma due to the permanence of photos or videos, just knowing the images are out there. Offenders may also use images (real or fake) to intimidate or blackmail victims.

    These considerations are also part of ongoing discussions about deepfake pornography, the creation of which the government also plans to criminalise.



    Read more:
    Deepfake porn: why we need to make it a crime to create it, not just share it

    All of these issues can be exacerbated with AI technology. Additionally, there is also likely to be a traumatic impact on moderators and investigators having to view abuse images in the finest details to identify if they are “real” or “generated” images.

    What can the law do?

    UK law currently outlaws the taking, making, distribution and possession of an indecent image or a pseudo-photograph (a digitally-created photorealistic image) of a child.

    But there are currently no laws that make it an offence to possess the technology to create AI child sexual abuse images. The new laws should ensure that police officers will be able to target abusers who are using or considering using AI to generate this content, even if they are not currently in possession of images when investigated.

    New laws on AI tools should help investigators crack down on offenders even if they do not have images in their possession.
    Pla2na/Shutterstock

    We will always be behind offenders when it comes to technology, and law enforcement agencies around the world will soon be overwhelmed. They need laws designed to help them identify and prosecute those seeking to exploit children and young people online.

    It is welcome news that the government is committed to taking action, but it has to be fast. The longer the legislation takes to enact, the more children are at risk of being abused.

    Tackling the global threat will also take more than laws in one country. We need a whole-system response that starts when new technology is being designed. Many AI products and tools have been developed for entirely genuine, honest and non-harmful reasons, but they can easily be adapted and used by offenders looking to create harmful or illegal material.

    The law needs to understand and respond to this, so that technology cannot be used to facilitate abuse, and so that we can differentiate between those using tech to harm, and those using it for good.

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

    – ref. Our research on dark web forums reveals the growing threat of AI-generated child abuse images – https://theconversation.com/our-research-on-dark-web-forums-reveals-the-growing-threat-of-ai-generated-child-abuse-images-249067

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Switching to electric vehicles will push the power grid to the brink

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Florimond Gueniat, Associate Professor in Mechanical Engineering, Birmingham City University

    AdamEdwards / shutterstock

    The UK’s pledge to reach net-zero emissions by 2050 hinges on replacing millions of petrol and diesel vehicles with cleaner alternatives. But transitioning to electric transport isn’t just about manufacturing new cars, installing chargers and so on. It’s a gargantuan energy generation challenge that could push the power grid to its limits.

    In 2023, UK transport consumed about 46 million litres of petrol and diesel. If we convert that into electricity, it would be equivalent to 49.5 gigawatts (GW) of continuous power throughout a whole year. For perspective, this is about one-third more than the UK’s entire current electricity generation capacity.

    In other words, every single power station in the UK could be devoted entirely to powering electric vehicles and it still wouldn’t be enough. But one might say we didn’t consider the efficiency of electric vehicles. Petrol and diesel engines waste about three quarters of their energy as heat, with only a small portion used to propel the car. Electric vehicles meanwhile waste only about one quarter.

    Adjusting for this, the actual power needed if the UK went entirely electric drops to around 20 GW. It would still mean increasing today’s grid capacity by almost half (46%), corresponding to building 17 nuclear plants (1.2 GW each) or 5,800 skyscraper-sized wind turbines (3.5 MW each). Those wind farms would cost around £22 billion, while the nuclear plants would cost significantly more.

    At the moment, less than 1% of vehicles in the UK are electric, which explains why there are no specific power issues – yet. But if the country did have a fully carbon-free fleet of vehicles, the associated surge in demand would strain infrastructure and risk large blackouts. California’s grid, for example, already faces stress during electric vehicle charging peaks, prompting warnings and forcing the state to put “managed charging” policies in place.

    ‘A gargantuan energy challenge’.
    Supamotionstock.com / shutterstock

    Massive upgrade needed

    Most countries looking to switch to zero-carbon transport will need to massively upgrade their electricity grid and power plants. Renewable energy complicates matters as wind and solar can’t always meet demand spikes (you can burn more gas or coal when needed, but you can’t choose when the wind blows or the sun shines). Nuclear offers stable and massive output, but new plants can take decades to build and the public is often hostile.

    Certain “smart” solutions could help things even if the grid itself isn’t overhauled. Electric vehicle batteries could be linked to the grid for instance, and used to store and supply power. Overnight, millions of cars will soak up electricity before releasing it when demand spikes again in the morning. Price discounts would encourage people to charge their cars at night, when demand for electricity is at its lowest.

    This can help mitigate many of the issues related to wind and solar being intermittent. But it will cause batteries to deteriorate faster, and still won’t solve the problem of having to generate more electricity.

    Electricity stored overnight can be very useful in the morning when millions of lights and kettles are switched on.
    Smile Fight / shutterstock

    One underappreciated strategy is empowering households and businesses that generate their own electricity via solar panels, small wind turbines, or even micro-hydro systems. By 2035, with vigorous policies, these “prosumers” could supply up to 15% of the UK’s electricity, easing grid strain and reducing reliance on centralised funding. Such policies in Germany have lead its prosumer networks to already offset 10% of the national demand.

    Without such decentralised efforts, the financial burden of grid upgrades will fall entirely on taxpayers, at staggering costs. The alternative is a huge rise in price of electricity, felt by all, and a stalled transition.

    No time to delay

    Generating more power remains the core issue. Without urgent action, the transition to low-carbon transport could stall – or worse, overload the energy system. The governments of France, the UK and some other countries have recently begun to discuss increasing energy production, but the focus is on meeting AI-related demands rather than electricity for the next generation of vehicles.

    Critically, net-zero will only happen with strong transport and energy policies in place. Governments must increase grid capacity and incentivise small-scale renewable generation through tax breaks and specially-designed payments. The alternative – delaying and relying solely on public funds – is economically unviable and politically risky.

    Florimond Gueniat 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. Switching to electric vehicles will push the power grid to the brink – https://theconversation.com/switching-to-electric-vehicles-will-push-the-power-grid-to-the-brink-248814

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI: FLYR Appoints Steven Berns as Chief Financial and Administrative Officer

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FLYR, the technology company that unlocks freedom to innovate for the travel industry, today announced the appointment of Steven Berns as its new Chief Financial and Administrative Officer. Steven joins FLYR with extensive experience as a finance and operating executive driving profitable growth at companies across multiple sectors.

    Steven comes to FLYR with proven capabilities in leading transformative financial and operational initiatives including as CFO & COO at TripleLift and Shutterstock. His prior experience includes executive leadership roles at Revlon, Tribune Publishing and Tribune Media, each of which he led through successful IPOs. Steven currently serves on the Board of Directors of Tradeweb Markets Inc. (NASDAQ: TW), where he is the Chair of the Audit Committee. At FLYR, Steven will bring his wealth of experience to support FLYR’s mission to free airlines from legacy technology and bring more innovation into the travel industry.

    “We’re thrilled to have Steven join the team,” said Alex Mans, Founder and CEO of FLYR. “His extensive cross-industry expertise will be instrumental in accelerating our growth trajectory. Steven’s proven track record in improving operational efficiency and effectiveness comes at a pivotal moment, as we work to revolutionize how airlines and travelers interact with technology.”

    “The travel industry is at a pivotal moment of transformation, and FLYR is uniquely positioned to lead this change,” said Steven Berns, CFO and CAO of FLYR. “I’m proud to join a team of innovators combining cutting-edge technology with a clear vision for revolutionizing how airlines operate. I look forward to building upon FLYR’s strong financial foundation so we can continue to unlock the freedom to innovate within the travel industry.”

    At FLYR, Steven will oversee FLYR’s operational growth and enhance internal efficiencies as the company scales. For more information on FLYR, please visit FLYR.com.

    About FLYR
    FLYR is a technology company that unlocks freedom to innovate for the travel industry – eliminating legacy constraints to enable real-time decision making and create the experiences travelers seek. Cloud native, FLYR leverages technologies including deep learning, an advanced form of AI. FLYR is helping airlines and hospitality businesses around the globe improve revenue performance, reduce cost, and modernize their e-commerce experience. Learn more at flyr.com.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3842ef41-925a-4e29-8bbe-d4b4aaef077c

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Nearly half a million people left without shelter, food or water in DR Congo amid destruction of displacement sites and aid cuts

    Source: Oxfam –

    Oxfam warns of an alarming humanitarian crisis in Eastern DRC as aid groups struggle to respond in the face of funding cuts ripple effects.  

    Over 450,000 people are left without shelter, food or water in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) following the destruction of thirteen displacements sites in Goma, Oxfam warns. The crisis is increasingly alarming following the takeover of Bukavu, the capital city of South Kivu while funding cuts hinder the capacity of remaining humanitarian organisations to respond.  

    A surge in fighting has forced thousands of people to leave the displacement sites, many of which were destroyed or looted in the aftermath of the conflict.  Many are now seeking shelter in overcrowded churches and schools in Goma.  Many families are going back to their villages, only to find their house in shamble and struggling with immense needs. The fall of Bukavu has triggered mass population movement, deepening the humanitarian crisis.  

    An Oxfam staff in Minova, located 45 km south-west of Goma, said: “The displaced people are returning en masse, there’s a lot of movement and the needs are enormous because the response has to be put in place and it will take time. Many are afraid to return to the village where they have already been attacked. People are traumatized. 25 cases of cholera have been recorded this week. There’s also Mpox. It’s a catastrophe. People are going to die.” 

    The ripple effects of the US funding cuts are dramatically affecting these communities, because USAID was the leading donor in the DRC and most aid groups were relying on their funding to provide lifesaving aid. 

    “We are forced to repair shattered equipment while people in desperate need go without help. Even worse, when the sites are finally up and running again, we may still be unable to assist them, as US aid cuts have put everything at risk. Unless the international community steps in, this crisis will spiral beyond control,” said Manenji Mangundu, Country Director of Oxfam in DRC.  

    Three displacement sites in Rusayo (Goma), where Oxfam provides assistance to over 100,000 people, have been completely emptied. Water tanks, latrines, showers and the water pipes were destroyed and septic tanks were left open. With little access to clean water and hygiene sanitation, the health risks are increasing as cases of measles, cholera and mpox spread, straining and already fragile healthcare system.  

    Families and communities are also struggling to get cash to buy food or return home. Following intense fighting over the last weeks, banks in Goma remain closed and money agents are operating at limited capacity. On top, prices are skyrocketing and pushing many families to the limit.

    The M23 takeover of Bukavu comes as African leaders convene at the African Union Summit in Addis Ababa today (Saturday). The crisis has triggered massive population movements, with thousands fleeing their homes in the early hours of Friday, February 14. 

    In DRC, Oxfam works in Goma, Minova, Masisi, Lubero, Beni, and Mahagi. Oxfam staff reports that thirteen displacement sites in Goma, hosting 450,000 people have been emptied and subsequently destroyed, looted or dismantled. The destroyed sites are: Baraka, Buhimba, Bulengo, 8th Cepac Mugunga, Kayarucinya, Kibati, Lushagala, Lushagala Extension, Lwashi, Rego, Rusayo 1, Rusayo 2 and Rusayo Extension.  

    Oxfam is working to restore critical infrastructure and treating septic tanks to help provide water and sanitation to the affected communities of Goma. The effects of the USAID funding cuts hinder urgent response for 300,000 people displaced in and around Goma with urgent clean water, food and protection services for women and girls. Long-term funding for humanitarian agencies to support affected families remains uncertain. 

    The DRC continues to grapple with the devastating impacts of the Mpox outbreak, which has claimed lives further straining an already fragile healthcare system 

    The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is the leading humanitarian donor in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Last year report indicate that it provided over $838 million in Fiscal Year 2024 alone, which includes $414 million specifically for humanitarian needs resulting from ongoing conflict and displacement 

    Photos of abandoned sites and destroyed infrastructure are available on request. 

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: AI Avatar Creator

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 20 FEB 2025 4:17PM by PIB Delhi

    Transform Imagination into Reality

     

    AI Avatars are transforming the digital landscape, offering personalized, interactive, AI-powered digital personas that engage like human influencers across virtual spaces. As this technology evolves, AI avatars are becoming powerful tools in marketing, content creation and entertainment. The AI Avatar Creator Challenge organized by the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting and Avtr Meta Labs, invites innovators to explore the endless possibilities of AI avatars. A total of 1,251 participants have registered so far, including 102 international entrants.

     This challenge is part of the Create in India Challenge Season 1 and falls under WAVES (World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit) Pillar 2, which is dedicated to AVGC-XR (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics, and cutting-edge technologies such as Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality, and the Metaverse). This event will be held from May 1-4, 2025, at the Jio World Convention Centre and Jio World Gardens in Mumbai.

    WAVES is a pioneering platform aimed at advancing India’s Media & Entertainment (M&E) industry to new levels of success. WAVES focuses on four key pillars: Broadcasting & Infotainment, AVGC-XR (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics, and Extended Reality), Digital Media & Innovation and Films. The AI Avatar Creator Challenge aligns with the AVGC-XR pillar embracing cutting-edge technologies like Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality and the Metaverse.

    Guidelines

     Before diving into the AI Avatar Creator Challenge take a look at these key details:

    • Participants to be minimum 18 years old and provide a valid ID for age verification.
    • The competition is open to creators worldwide, and you can submit multiple AI avatars as long as each entry is fully AI-generated with unique names and profiles.
    • By participating, you confirm that your AI avatar is an original creation and does not infringe on the rights of other real-life or AI models. Any submissions that copy the work or identity of others without consent will result in disqualification.

    Registration Process

    Participants must register for the contest exclusively through the Avtr Meta Labs website. Click the “Register Interest” button on the site and fill in your details, including your name, contact information, the concept and purpose of your AI Avatar and your location. Be sure to review all the important terms and conditions before applying. The submission deadline for the challenge is 28th February, 2025.

    Evaluation Criteria

    An expert panel will evaluate the AI Avatar Creator Challenge, assessing each entry based on key criteria. Judging will focus on the three core areas: Finesse, Technology, and Purpose.

    A points-based system will score each creator across the three categories, with each entrant given an overall score.

    Prize

    The submissions will be narrowed down to the final Top 10. The top 3 contestants will be invited to present their work at the WAVES 2025 summit, where they can showcase their projects to industry experts. The winner will receive a cash prize of INR 100,000, and all Top 10 entries will receive a certificate of participation from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.

    By being named a winner or runner-up, the participant agrees to grant permission to use their AI Avatar’s imagery and associated social media channels in marketing materials, including Press/PR, paid advertising, social media, and online platforms, indefinitely.

    References:

    Kindly find the pdf file 

    ***

    Santosh Kumar/ Ritu Kataria/ Kamna Lakaria

    (Release ID: 2104987) Visitor Counter : 59

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CityQuest: Shades of Bharat

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 20 FEB 2025 3:23PM by PIB Delhi

    A Card Game That Brings India’s Urban Development to Life

    Introduction

    WAVES City Quest: Shades of Bharat is an innovative educational game that brings India’s urban development to life through a fun and engaging experience. Designed to align with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for urban planning, the game educates players on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by NITI Aayog.

    Developed by the E-Gaming Federation (EGF) in collaboration with the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, this card-based game allows players to compare 56 cities across India based on key development indicators such as cleanliness, healthcare, education, and infrastructure. By competing to score points based on a city’s strengths, participants gain insights into urban challenges and progress while reliving the nostalgia of childhood trump card games. As of 15th February 2025, an impressive 1,920 participants have registered for CityQuest.

    City Quest: Shades of Bharat is a key component of the Create in India Challenges, a flagship initiative under World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES). Taking place from 1-4 May 2025 at the Jio World Convention Centre & Jio World Gardens, Mumbai, WAVES is a landmark platform designed to propel India’s Media & Entertainment (M&E) industry to greater heights. WAVES is Built on four key pillars i.e. Broadcasting & Infotainment, Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics and Extended Reality (AVGC-XR), Digital Media & Innovation, and Films. This challenge falls under Pillar 2: AVGC-XR, which delves into immersive storytelling and interactive experiences. By blending technology with creativity, this pillar showcases gaming, animation, and extended reality advancements, offering industry leaders and stakeholders new frontiers to explore.

    With over 73,000 registrations, the Create in India Challenges have catalysed creativity and innovation, engaging aspiring and professional creators from diverse backgrounds.

    Eligibility and Participation Timeline

    How to Play: Rules of CityQuest

     

    • Player vs. Vishwakarma (AI): The player and Vishwakarma (AI) each receive a deck of 11 randomly shuffled cards from a total of 56 city cards.
    • Deal: At the start of the game, both players are dealt 11 face-down city cards.
    • Reveal: In each round, both the player and the AI reveal the top city card from their respective decks. The player who won the previous round chooses the comparison parameter first.
    • Compare: Each card features six parameters, such as Cleanliness, Population, and Education. The player selects a parameter to compare against the AI’s card.
    • Scoring: Earn +1 point for winning a hand, +0.5 points for a tie, and an additional +0.5 points for consecutive wins.
    • Winning the Game: After 11 rounds, the player with the highest total score is declared the winner.

     

    Prize Categories

    Leaderboard Overview

    Once the game concludes, scores are updated on a dynamic leaderboard. There are three types of leaderboards:

    References:

    Click here to see PDF.

    *****

    Santosh Kumar/ Ritu Kataria/ Saurabh Kalia

    (Release ID: 2104964) Visitor Counter : 30

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Software Technology Parks of India (STPI), under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) launches new incubation facility at Salt Lake, Kolkata to promote entrepreneurship and IT exports from West Bengal

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Software Technology Parks of India (STPI), under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) launches new incubation facility at Salt Lake, Kolkata to promote entrepreneurship and IT exports from West Bengal

    STPI has played a key role in creating a robust tech ecosystem by offering state-of-the-art infrastructure and incubation support for budding entrepreneurs: Shri. Jatin Prasada

    From Few to 67: STPI’s rapid growth powers India’s tech revolution

    Posted On: 20 FEB 2025 2:09PM by PIB Delhi

    The Software Technology Parks of India (STPI), under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India, has inaugurated a state-of-the-art incubation facility at Salt Lake, Kolkata. The facility was inaugurated by Shri Jitin Prasada, Hon’ble Minister of State for Commerce & Industry and Electronics and Information Technology, Government of India. This initiative aims to foster innovation-led entrepreneurship, boost IT exports, and strengthen the IT/ITeS/ESDM industry in West Bengal.

    Speaking on the occasion, Shri. Jitin Prasada, said, “India is on a transformative journey to become the global hub of technology and innovation. The inauguration of the new STPI incubation facility in Kolkata is a testament to our unwavering commitment to fostering innovation, nurturing startups and promoting inclusive growth across regions. STPI has been instrumental in creating a robust tech ecosystem by providing state-of-the-art infrastructure, incubation support, and a platform for budding entrepreneurs to thrive. As we stride forward in the era of Artificial Intelligence and data-driven innovation, India is focused on developing its own AI models and GPUs, ensuring equitable access for researchers, students and startups. With vast data resources and the government’s commitment to expanding technology access beyond metropolitan cities, we are bridging the digital divide and unlocking opportunities in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities. Together, let us build a future where India leads the world in technology and empowers every citizen in the journey towards a digitally advanced nation.”

     

    Shri Arvind Kumar, Director General, STPI, emphasized the significance of the newly inaugurated facility, stating, “This incubation center will provide world-class infrastructure, mentorship, and market access for startups, enabling them to drive innovation in frontier technologies such as AI, IoT, Blockchain, and FinTech. With Kolkata’s rich intellectual and creative legacy, the city has immense potential to become a hub for emerging technologies. The Indian government is taking decisive steps to strengthen AI capabilities and enhance computing infrastructure to position India as a leader in the global technology landscape.”

    As part of its larger mission, STPI operates 67 centers across India, with 59 located in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, ensuring inclusive growth and fostering entrepreneurship beyond metro hubs. The organization has also established 24 domain-specific Centres of Entrepreneurship (CoEs) focused on HealthTech, MedTech, Blockchain, IoT, and Agritech, among others. Unlike traditional centers of excellence, these CoEs prioritize entrepreneurship and industry collaboration, helping startups scale their innovations for global markets. STPI is committed to providing 360-degree support—including mentorship, infrastructure, market access and global networking opportunities”.

    Key Highlights of the STPI Incubation Facility in Kolkata

    • Expansive Infrastructure: Spanning 200,000 sq. ft., the facility offers plug-and-play office spaces and 75,000 sq. ft. of raw incubation space.
    • Cutting-Edge Technology: Equipped with high-speed data communication and state-of-the-art facilities to support IT/ITeS startups and SMEs.
    • Incubation & Mentorship: Startups will receive comprehensive support, including mentorship, industry collaboration, and global networking opportunities.
    • Employment Generation: The initiative is expected to create substantial direct and indirect employment opportunities in the region.

    STPI’s Role in Strengthening India’s IT Sector

    Since its inception in 1991, STPI has played a pivotal role in supporting India’s IT/ITeS industry by providing single-window services, high-speed data communication infrastructure, and incubation facilities for startups and young entrepreneurs. With a strong commitment to fostering India’s startup ecosystem, STPI has established 67 centers across the country, including those in Kolkata, Kharagpur, Siliguri, Haldia, and Durgapur.

    In addition, STPI has launched 24 domain-specific Centres of Entrepreneurship (CoEs) focusing on HealthTech, MedTech, Blockchain, IoT, and Agritech, among others. Through its Next Generation Incubation Scheme (NGIS) and other startup initiatives, STPI has already supported over 1,300 startups, providing them with end-to-end assistance, including mentorship, industry collaboration, and global market access.

    Advancing the Digital India Vision

    Starting with few centres, STPI has grown all over the country with 67 centres including Kolkata, Kharagpur, Siliguri, Haldia, and Durgapur in West Bengal. The inauguration of this new incubation facility in Kolkata is a significant step in advancing the Digital India vision and aligns with the government’s mission of ‘Viksit Bharat’ by promoting entrepreneurship, innovation, and inclusive technological growth across the country.

    The inauguration event was attended by esteemed dignitaries from the IT industry

    Shri Manjit Nayak, Director, STPI Kolkata, along with other dignitaries from IT industries such as Shri. Manojit Sengupta, Delivery Center Head, M/s Tata Consultancy Services, Shri. Ujjwal Mukherjee, Zonal Head (East), M/s Concentrix Daksh Services India Pvt. Ltd. and Shri Jitendra Chaddah, Managing Director and Country Head, M/s GlobalFoundries Engineering Pvt. Ltd. 

    Dharmendra Tewari/ Shatrunjay Kumar

    (Release ID: 2104933) Visitor Counter : 65

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Dr. Jitendra Singh Inaugurates PMSSY Building at SCTIMST, Highlights India’s Healthcare Transformation

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Dr. Jitendra Singh Inaugurates PMSSY Building at SCTIMST, Highlights India’s Healthcare Transformation

    Modi Govt’s new initiatives aim at making quality healthcare affordable, accessible;

    Union Minister Calls for SCTIMST to Emerge as Global Hub for Neurosurgery and Cardiovascular Research

    PMSSY Strengthens Healthcare Infrastructure, Fosters Indigenous Innovation, Says Dr. Jitendra Singh

    Posted On: 20 FEB 2025 6:02PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh inaugurated today  the ‘Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana’ (PMSSY) driven upgraded Super specialty Neurosurgery and Cardiovascular Surgery  state-of-the-art  Building Block  at Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences & Technology (SCTIMST) here and emphasized that the Modi Govt’s new initiatives are aimed at making quality healthcare affordable, accessible across sections of society.

    The Minister described the institute as a model of synergy between science, technology and medical advancements, aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of integrated holistic approach.

    Speaking at the event, Dr. Jitendra Singh praised SCTIMST for emerging as a center of excellence in both healthcare as well as research and development of new devices, instruments and medical procedures at cost-effective rates. He highlighted that the institute, functioning under the Department of Science and Technology, embodies the “whole-of-government” approach, fostering collaboration between the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Science and Technology. He acknowledged the role of scientists, researchers, and healthcare professionals in positioning India as a leader in medical research and innovation.

    Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh  speaking after inaugurating the new upgraded neurosurgery and cardiovascular surgery block  at Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (SCTIMST) at Thiruvananthapuram.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh noted that the PMSSY initiative is part of a broader effort to strengthen India’s healthcare infrastructure. “The scheme is designed to provide quality medical care while promoting indigenous innovation in health-related R&D,” he said. The new PMSSY Building will significantly enhance the capacity of SCTIMST, offering advanced healthcare facilities, specialized medical research laboratories, and improved infrastructure for patient care. It will also serve as a hub for high-end medical training, facilitating knowledge-sharing among medical professionals.

    He linked the project to the larger healthcare ecosystem that includes the Ayushman Bharat initiative, the world’s largest health insurance program, and the newly announced universal health cover for citizens above 70 years. Stressing the need for integrating modern medical advancements with traditional healthcare approaches, Dr. Jitendra Singh underscored the importance of digital health initiatives, artificial intelligence in diagnostics, and genome-based therapies.

    Highlighting India’s achievements in biotechnology, Dr. Jitendra Singh pointed to the success of the indigenous COVID-19 vaccine, the development of the HPV vaccine for cervical cancer, and breakthroughs in gene therapy. “India has transitioned from being an importer to a leader in preventive healthcare, gaining global recognition in bio-manufacturing and medical research,” he stated. He further emphasized the need for continued investments in healthcare R&D, ensuring that India remains at the forefront of medical advancements.

    Dr. Jitendra Singh also underscored the need for strategic specialization, suggesting that SCTIMST focus on becoming a global leader in neurosurgery and cardiovascular research to enhance its international recognition. “A distinct identity in a specialized field attracts global attention and medical tourism, much like leading institutes in the U.S.,” he added. He encouraged scientists and medical professionals to undertake collaborative research projects with global institutions to expand knowledge and expertise.

    The Minister stressed that while India has made remarkable progress in bridging the rural-urban divide in disease patterns, healthcare accessibility remains a challenge. He reiterated the government’s commitment to expanding medical services through new AIIMS institutions and upgraded medical colleges, ensuring affordable and high-quality treatment. He also called for leveraging telemedicine and mobile health units to extend healthcare services to remote regions, making quality healthcare accessible to all.

    The event saw participation from key stakeholders in the medical and scientific community, including senior officials from the Ministry of Science and Technology, medical practitioners, and researchers. The inauguration of the PMSSY Building at SCTIMST marks another milestone in India’s journey towards a self-reliant and globally competitive healthcare infrastructure. Dr. Jitendra Singh reaffirmed the government’s continued support for initiatives that strengthen India’s health ecosystem, positioning the country as a leader in medical innovation and patient care.

    ***

    NKR/PSM

    (Release ID: 2105056) Visitor Counter : 25

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LegCo Subcommittee on Issues Relating to the Development of Web3 and Virtual Assets visits Consensus Hong Kong (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The following is issued on behalf of the Legislative Council Secretariat:

         The Legislative Council (LegCo) Subcommittee on Issues Relating to the Development of Web3 and Virtual Assets visited Consensus Hong Kong at Hong Kong Conventional and Exhibition Centre in Wan Chai today (February 20) to gain insight into the international meeting and exhibition about the cryptocurrency, blockchain and Web 3 industries, which is being held for the first time in Hong Kong.

         Members received a briefing by representatives of Consensus Hong Kong on the features of various stages and events, as well as the reasons for choosing Hong Kong as the host city. Members noted that Consensus Hong Kong brings together leaders, investors and startups from the global cryptocurrency, blockchain, Web3 and fintech industries. Through keynote speeches, summits, and investor matchmaking activities, the participants explore popular topics and future trends related to virtual assets, open currencies, and artificial intelligence.

         Members then learned the competitions of Web3 startups and innovative blockchain solutions, noting that these contests allow promising startups to showcase their proposals and inspire innovative ideas. During the visit, Members exchanged views with representatives of Consensus Hong Kong on driving the growth of the Web3 ecosystem, developing the crypto economy, and exploring business opportunities. Members also opined that the successful hosting of the event in Hong Kong is a manifestation of global confidence in Hong Kong’s development in the Web3 sector. It also facilitates local businesses to expand their networks, and connect with the world.

         Members who participated in the visit were the Chairman of the Subcommittee, Dr Johnny Ng, Subcommittee members Mr Ma Fung-kwok and Ms Carmen Kan.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: National Consumer Helpline (NCH) witnesses’ remarkable growth in North-Eastern States

    Source: Government of India

    National Consumer Helpline (NCH) witnesses’ remarkable growth in North-Eastern States

    15,860 consumer grievances registered in Arunachal Pradesh in 2024

    Posted On: 20 FEB 2025 1:36PM by PIB Delhi

    The National Consumer Helpline (NCH), an initiative of the Department of Consumer Affairs, has achieved unprecedented success in the North – Eastern region of India.

    Among the states in the region, Arunachal Pradesh has emerged as a standout performer, recording a significant surge in consumer grievance registrations and resolutions. With 318 grievances in 2020, the state witnessed an exponential rise in number of consumers reaching out to NCH through various channels leading to 15,860 consumer grievances being registered in 2024. Arunachal’s progress highlights growing consumer awareness and trust in the NCH platform, driven by innovative outreach initiatives and technological interventions.

    This success reflects the collective outcome of multiple initiatives undertaken by the Department to promote consumer awareness and deliver effective grievance redressal mechanisms in some of the most geographically challenging areas of the country.

    The Northeastern states, with their unique demographics and socio-economic challenges, have traditionally faced barriers in accessing consumer grievance redressal mechanisms. The NCH’s concerted efforts in these states have led to an impressive increase of 300%, escalating from a modest 9162 grievances in 2020 to 36,609 grievances in 2024. Arunachal Pradesh, in particular, has witness a outstanding growth in this movement, with a significant share of the complaints pertaining to issues in sectors such as e-commerce, telecom services, digital payments, and faulty goods and services.

    The remarkable performance of Arunachal Pradesh can be attributed to several key factors:

    Localized Outreach Programs: Department has prioritized reaching consumers in remote and tribal areas of the state through localized workshops, community events, and collaboration with self-help groups and local NGOs. Consumer grievances witnessed a tenfold increase from rural areas i.e. 03 grievances in 2020 to 381 grievances in 2024. By addressing consumers in their own language and cultural context, the helpline has made consumer protection rights more relatable and accessible.

    Multilingual Support for Greater Inclusivity: Recognizing the linguistic diversity of the North- East, NCH has expanded its language support to include several regional dialects, enabling more people to file complaints and seek help in their native tongue. This has been particularly impactful in Arunachal Pradesh, where linguistic barriers previously hindered consumer participation.

    Empowered Participation of Women: There has been a marked increase in the participation of women in lodging consumer grievances, signing an encouraging trend toward gender equality in the realm of consumer rights. The rising involvement of women in this domain is indicative of the broader societal shift towards greater empowerment and autonomy, particularly in the context of accessing justice and accountability.

    Digital Awareness Campaigns: In line with India’s digital transformation, the majority of grievances have been registered through the NCH web portal, marking a definitive shift towards digital engagement. The number of consumer grievances has exponentially increased, from 98 in 2020 to 384 in 2021, 855 in 2022, 2,941 in 2023, and 15,230 in 2024. It is important to note that consumer grievances rose by 517% last year. This transition underscores the growing adoption of technology by consumers, facilitating quicker, more efficient processes and contributing to the larger goal of digital empowerment.

    The Department of Consumer Affairs has been generating consumer awareness by undertaking country-wide multimedia awareness campaigns under the aegis of “Jago Grahak Jago” and utilizing ‘Jagriti Mascot’ to reach out to consumers across the country including North East region. Traditional media like All India Radio, Doordarshan, fairs & festivals, etc. as well as digital media like social media, Youtube, cinema theatres, etc. are utilized to generate awareness amongst consumers. Through simple messages and jingles, consumers are made aware about the consumer rights, unfair trade practices, consumer issues and the mechanism to seek redressal.

    In 2024-25, the department has run following campaigns for awareness generation in NER

    – AIR campaign during T20 World Cup in June month.

    – IVRS campaign through NFDC with consumer oriented messages in NER.

    – Releasing grant-in-aid to Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh for generating consumer awareness at local level.

    – As a part of the Capacity Building Programme of Panchayats on consumer-centric rights and issues, the Department in collaboration with the Ministry of Panchayati Raj is organizing virtual interactive sessions with representatives of Panchayats in States/UTs to aware them about consumer issues. The first session was held with State of Assam on 20th December 2024.

    Building on the success in Arunachal Pradesh, the Department of Consumer Affairs is now focusing on further enhancing NCH’s reach in other North-Eastern states, including Assam, Meghalaya, Manipur, Nagaland, Tripura, Mizoram, and Sikkim.

    The next phase will emphasize:

    • Integration with State Government Agencies: Closer coordination with local authorities to streamline grievance redressal.
    • Technological Upgrades: Expansion of the NCH platform with AI-driven features to prioritize and resolve complaints faster.
    • Youth Engagement Programs: special campaigns to engage the younger population, who are the primary users of digital services and e-commerce.
    • Feedback and Monitoring Systems: Strengthened feedback mechanisms to ensure continuous improvement of services.

    This strategic approach has led to tangible results in Arunachal Pradesh. Consumers now feel more empowered to voice their concerns, knowing that their complaints will be addressed promptly. Moreover, the awareness campaigns have helped rural communities better understand their rights, particularly in relation to evolving challenges such as online scams, misleading advertisements, and substandard services.

    The significant advances in Arunachal Pradesh and the broader North-Eastern region underscore the department’s commitment to creating an ecosystem where consumers are aware of their rights, have access to reliable grievance redressal mechanisms, and feel empowered to hold businesses accountable.

    The National Consumer Helpline (NCH), under the Department of Consumer Affairs, is taking an innovative step forward in its mission to serve consumers across India. As part of its ongoing project, NCH is working towards integrating a chatbot feature that supports regional languages, making consumer assistance more accessible to people in every corner of the nation. By introducing this chatbot, the Department aims to break down language barriers, ensuring that consumers from diverse linguistic backgrounds can easily access information, register complaints, and resolve issues without facing communication challenges. This initiative not only aligns with the government’s commitment to enhancing digital accessibility but also empowers individuals in rural and remote areas who may have limited exposure to English or Hindi. By offering real-time assistance in multiple languages, the National Consumer Helpline is poised to strengthen consumer rights protection and foster greater awareness, leading to a more inclusive and responsive system for all.

    Positive Outcomes in Grievance Redressal: The Impact on Arunachal Pradesh

    • A consumer from Papum Pare raised an issue regarding the refund for the product received from an online retailer. Following the intervention of the National Consumer Helpline (NCH), the refund was facilitated within 3 days of registration of the grievance, enhancing the consumer’s trust in e-commerce platforms. Furthermore, the consumer’s positive feedback, reflect their increased trust in NCH.
    • A consumer from Lower Subansiri raised his grievance that his product i.e. Scrambler seat amounting Eleven Thousand Eighty-Nine had not been dispatched from 41 days. With the intervention of National Consumer Helpline (NCH), the product dispatched within 4 days. Moreover, the consumer shared his experience as “Thank you so much Team Consumer helpline. They Dispatch my Scrambler seat on 4 May 2022”
    • A consumer from West Kameng raised an issue about a delayed refund for a flight that was canceled, despite the airline’s guarantee of a full refund. The refund was not initiated, but with the intervention of NCH, the refund was processed within 6 days. The consumer expressed appreciation, stating, “You guys did an excellent job.”
    • A consumer from East Siang filed a grievance regarding receiving a fake toner cartridge. Although the product was returned, the company did not initiate the refund. With NCH’s intervention, the refund was processed within 4 days. The consumer expressed gratitude, stating, “Thank you, I have received the refund.”

     

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    Abhishek Dayal/Nihi Sharma

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Current Trends in Drug Discovery Research (CTDDR-2022): The 9th MahaKumbh for Drug Research

    Source: Government of India

    Current Trends in Drug Discovery Research (CTDDR-2022): The 9th MahaKumbh for Drug Research

    Day one was dedicated to “New strategies in synthetic and medicinal chemistry”

    Posted On: 20 FEB 2025 1:30PM by PIB Delhi

    The 9th “International Symposium on Current Trends in Drug Discovery Research” inaugurated yesterday at CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow. Dr. Radha Rangrajan, Director CSIR-CDRI, Lucknow, welcomed all the dignitaries present in this mega event. She briefed about the details of this very important Drug discovery conference and set the tone for the participants that how they can utilize this opportunity for learning, networking and upgrading their research skills

    “Science has no borders”: Dr. N. Kalaiselvi

    The Chief Guest of the program, Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, Director General, CSIR & Secretary DSIR addressed the audience. Dr. Kalaiselvi highlighted the event’s significance as a platform for knowledge exchange. She stressed that such gatherings provide a great opportunity for researchers, industry leaders, and young minds to collaborate, fostering innovation in pharmaceuticals and healthcare.”Science has no borders, and this program is a gateway for global collaboration,” she remarked, underlining the importance of international cooperation in research and development. She urged students to take inspiration from these discussions and work towards making India a global leader in science and technology by 2047.

    Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, Director General, CSIR & Secretary DSIR addressing the audience at the inauguration of  “Current Trends in Drug Discovery Research (CTDDR-2022)” at CSIR-CDIR, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh.

    Quantum Computing and Artificial Intelligence (AI) is set to revolution in drug discovery: Prof. Balram Bhargava

    The Guest of Honour the program, Prof. Balram Bhargava, Dean and Senior Consultant, Holy Family Hospital, New Delhi & Former Director General, ICMR also addressed the audience. Dr. Balram Bhargava, emphasizes that India’s strength in drug discovery stems from its rich heritage in chemistry, making it a global hub for pharmaceutical advancements.The country has consistently demonstrated its ability to produce high-quality, affordable medicines, ensuring healthcare accessibility worldwide. However, challenges such as the availability of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) and the need for new drug discoveries remain key areas of focus. Further he said that the integration of Quantum Computing and Artificial Intelligence (AI) is set to revolutionize drug discovery, accelerating research and reducing costs. Also he said that Collaboration has been a cornerstone of India’s pharmaceutical success, as seen in the development of vaccines. Market shaping is equally important, ensuring that innovations reach the masses while maintaining India’s leadership in cost-effective healthcare solutions.

    Journey towards the development of drugs for pain treatment

    (Prof. Christopher Robert McCurdy)

    In the inaugural program, Prof. Christopher Robert McCurdy, Professor and The Frank A. Duckworth Eminent Scholar Chair, University of Florida, USA, has delivered the inaugural talk on “Seeing Pain: from the lab to the clinic, a medicinal chemist’s journey.” In his oration, he brought up the role of Sigma-1 receptors in pain processing. He further talked about the journey of the discovery and development of a tracer molecule FTC146, which acts as a selective ligand for Sigma-1 receptors. This tracer can locate sites of nerve damage in peripheral nerves, which can result in better pain management and, in certain situations, cured pain. This tracer has completed Phase 1 human clinical trials and can be a breakthrough in pain management strategies.

    Targeting cofactor biosynthesis for the development of new antimicrobial agents with novel mechanism of action

    (Prof. Courtney C. Aldrich)

    Later in the Session II today, Prof. Courtney C. Aldrich from the University of Minnesota, USA, He online discussed about the novel approaches in targeting cofactor biosynthesis in order to develop new antimicrobial agents with novel mechanisms. He shared his efforts to design novel anti-tubercular agents against two elusive targets for which there are no effective small molecules. They discovered promising inhibitor chemotypes and optimized them for bioactivity and drug disposition characteristics using complementary techniques. He also discussed the difficulties he encountered during the optimization campaign and how he overcame them through the integration of mechanism of action studies. He also shared his most recent research to develop next-generation Rifamycin derivatives that overcome multiple resistance mechanisms.

     

    Eliciting agonism-antagonism in endosomal toll-like receptor modulators via convoluted interplay of chemical subunits

    (Dr. ArindamTalukdar)

    Dr. ArindamTalukdar from CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology (IICB), Kolkata, shared his research findings on the stimulation of agonism-antagonism in TLR7 modulators via complex interactions between chemical subunits. The TLR7 is an endosomal TLR protein that helps the body to recognize and respond to viruses and bacteria. He noted in his presentation that agonists and antagonists frequently have overlapping binding sites in their target molecules. Therefore, agonistic chemical scaffolds can be used as a template for designing antagonists. Starting from the agonistic purine scaffold, by rationally dissecting, they identified a singular ‘chemical switch’ at C-2 that could make a potent purine scaffold TLR7 agonist to lose agonism and acquire antagonist activity. He further mentioned the most unprecedented outcome of his study as the convoluted interplay of “chemical subunits”, to venture into the agonist-partial agonist-antagonist-agonist circle through sequential single-point change. He further proposed these new class of TLR7 modulators as promising precursor for therapeutic development.

    The eminent speakers ignited the spark of scientific temperament in the participants of CTDDR-2025 with their vibrant talks filled with the latest information. The flooding of current information would be continued in further sessions which will dissipate the new energy and new direction for research and development among the participants sharing this platform from all around.

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     NKR/PSM

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