Category: Machine Learning

  • MIL-OSI: Hut 8 Operations Update for October 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    20.1 EH/s and 967 MW under management in mining with path to ~35 EH/s

    Vega site buildout advancing on track for Q2 2025 energization

    MIAMI, Nov. 05, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hut 8 Corp. (Nasdaq | TSX: HUT) (“Hut 8” or the “Company”), a leading, vertically integrated operator of large-scale energy infrastructure and one of North America’s largest Bitcoin miners, today released its operations update for October 2024.

    “Following the announcement of our partnership with BITMAIN to launch the U3S21EXPH with a 15 EH/s hosting deployment, progress continues on our 205-megawatt Vega site, which will feature the custom rack-based architecture we developed in-house for the project,” said Asher Genoot, CEO of Hut 8. “With groundwork progressing rapidly, we are on track to energize the site in Q2 2025. Our hosting agreement with BITMAIN is expected to generate up to $135 million in annualized revenue on a fully ramped basis.”

    “In parallel, we are preparing our existing sites for a near-term fleet upgrade as we finalize a commercial agreement. At Salt Creek, we launched an immersion cooling pilot as we continue to advance our technological innovation efforts. More broadly, we are focused on identifying further opportunities for technical and commercial innovation as we advance discussions for large-scale AI data center development opportunities across multiple sites in our development pipeline.”

    Highlights:

    • Groundwork at Vega progressing on track for Q2 2025 energization with ~15 EH/s hosting deployment of U3S21EXPH ASIC miner
    • Began preparing existing sites for expected near-term ASIC fleet upgrade
    • Launched immersion cooling pilot at Salt Creek as part of continued technological innovation efforts
    • Advanced discussions for large-scale AI data center development opportunities across multiple sites in development pipeline

    Operating Metrics

    Average during the period unless otherwise noted October 2024 September 2024
    Total energy capacity under management (mining)1,2 967 MW3 762 MW
    Total deployed miners under management4 194.2K 189.9K
    Total hashrate under management5 20.1 EH/s 19.5 EH/s
         
    Self-Mining6    
    Deployed miners7 57.1K 58.6K
    Deployed hashrate8 5.6 EH/s 5.6 EH/s
    Bitcoin produced1,9 100 BTC 85 BTC
    Bitcoin on balance sheet1 9,110 BTC 9,106 BTC
         
    Managed Services10    
    Energy capacity under management1 582 MW 582 MW
    Deployed miners under management 146.5K 140.8K
    Hashrate under management 15.5 EH/s 14.9 EH/s
         
    Hosting    
    Deployed miners under management11,12 76.7K 76.7K
    Hashrate under management13 8.5 EH/s 8.6 EH/s
         

    Energy Infrastructure Platform1

            Current/Contracted Revenue Stream(s)14
    Site Location Owner15 Power
    Capacity
    Self-
    Mining
    Managed
    Services
    Hosting HPC Power
    Sales
    Vega16 Texas Panhandle Hut 8 205 MW     Yes17    
    Medicine Hat Medicine Hat, AB Hut 8 67 MW Yes        
    Salt Creek Orla, TX Hut 8 63 MW Yes        
    Alpha Niagara Falls, NY Hut 8 50 MW Yes   Yes    
    Drumheller18 Drumheller, AB Hut 8 42 MW          
    Kelowna Kelowna, BC Hut 8 1.1 MW       Yes  
    Mississauga Mississauga, ON Hut 8 0.9 MW       Yes  
    Vaughan Vaughan, ON Hut 8 0.6 MW       Yes  
    Vancouver II Vancouver, BC Hut 8 0.5 MW       Yes  
    Vancouver I Vancouver, BC Hut 8 0.3 MW       Yes  
    King Mountain19 McCamey, TX Hut 8 (JV) 280 MW Yes Yes Yes   Yes
    Iroquois Falls20 Iroquois Falls, ON Hut 8 (JV) 120 MW         Yes
    Kingston20 Kingston, ON Hut 8 (JV) 110 MW         Yes
    North Bay20 North Bay, ON Hut 8 (JV) 40 MW         Yes
    Kapuskasing20 Kapuskasing, ON Hut 8 (JV) 40 MW         Yes
    Cedarvale3,16 Barstow, TX Managed 215 MW   Yes      
    East Stiles Midland, TX Managed 30 MW   Yes      
    Rebel Midland, TX Managed 25 MW   Yes      
    Stiles Midland, TX Managed 20 MW   Yes      
    Garden City Midland, TX Managed 12 MW   Yes      
    Total     1,322 MW          
                     

    Conference Call to Discuss Third Quarter 2024 Results

    Who: Analysts, media, and investors are invited to attend.
    What: Hut 8 executives will review the Company’s financial results for the third quarter of 2024.
    When: Results will be shared via media release and on the Company’s website at https://hut8.com/investors/ on November 13 2024. The conference call and webinar will begin at 8:30 a.m. ET.
    Where: The webcast can be viewed at: https://www.hut8.com/q3-2024/.
      Analysts can register here.
       

    Upcoming Conferences & Events:

    • November 13–14, 2024: Cantor Fitzgerald Crypto, Digital Assets & AI Infrastructure Conference 2024
    • November 19, 2024: Craig-Hallum 15th Annual Alpha Select Conference
    • November 19, 2024: Benzinga Future of Digital Assets Conference 2024

    Notes:

    (1) As of the end of the period
    (2) Energy capacity under management (mining) includes (i) 180 MW of self-mining sites comprised of Alpha, Medicine Hat, and Salt Creek, (ii) 205 MW of hosting capacity at Vega, which is currently under construction, (iii) 280 MW of capacity under management at King Mountain, and (iv) 302 MW from Hut 8’s Managed Services agreement with Ionic, assuming full 215 MW of capacity at Cedarvale, which was first energized in April and is currently under construction.
    (3) Starting October 2024, Hut 8 includes the full 205 MW of capacity at Vega as energy capacity under management (mining) as Vega is expected to host miners for BITMAIN. This was not reflected in Hut 8’s September 2024 figure.
    (4) Includes all miners that are racked with power and networking, rounded to the nearest 100, in Self-Mining, Managed Services, and Hosting infrastructure with power and networking, including all miners at the King Mountain site.
    (5) Includes all Self-Mining, Managed Services, and Hosting hashrate, including 100% of the hashrate at the King Mountain site.
    (6) Self-Mining operations for Hut 8 include 100% of operations at the King Mountain site.
    (7) Deployed miners are defined as those physically racked with power and networking, rounded to the nearest 100; deployed self-mining miners net of the 50% share of the King Mountain JV held by Hut 8’s joint venture partner was 48.2K during October and 49.6K during September.
    (8) Indicates the target hashrate of all deployed miners; deployed self-mining hashrate net of the 50% share of the King Mountain JV held by Hut 8’s joint venture partner was 4.7 EH/s during September and August, respectively.
    (9) Bitcoin produced net of the 50% share of the King Mountain JV held by Hut 8’s joint venture partner was 83 BTC during October and 72 BTC during September.
    (10) Managed services include (i) 280 MW of capacity under management at King Mountain and (ii) 302 MW from Hut 8’s Managed Services agreement with Ionic, assuming full 215 MW of capacity at Cedarvale, which was first energized in April and is currently under construction.
    (11) Miners are rounded to the nearest 100.
    (12) 42.6K deployed miners under management net of the 50% share of the King Mountain JV held by Hut 8’s joint venture partner during October and September, respectively.
    (13) 4.7 EH/s under management net of Hut 8’s joint venture partner’s 50% share of the King Mountain JV during October and September, respectively.
    (14) Reflects revenue sources to Hut 8, its subsidiaries, and/or joint ventures in which they participate.
    (15) Owned denotes ownership of power infrastructure at owned or leased data center locations, except for HPC sites where owned denotes ownership of mechanical and electrical infrastructure at leased data center locations.
    (16) Site is currently under development.
    (17) Anticipated to begin generating revenue by Q2 2025.
    (18) Site currently shut down; Hut 8 maintaining lease with option value of re-energizing site.
    (19) Owned by a JV between Hut 8 and a Fortune 200 renewable energy producer in which Hut 8 has an approximately 50% membership interest.
    (20) Owned by a JV between Hut 8 and Macquarie in which Hut 8 has an approximately 80% membership interest.
       

    About Hut 8

    Hut 8 Corp. is an energy infrastructure operator and Bitcoin miner with self-mining, hosting, managed services, and traditional data center operations across North America. Headquartered in Miami, Florida, Hut 8 Corp. has a portfolio comprising twenty sites: ten Bitcoin mining, hosting, and Managed Services sites in Alberta, New York, and Texas, five high performance computing data centers in British Columbia and Ontario, four power generation assets in Ontario, and one non-operational site in Alberta. For more information, visit www.hut8.com and follow us on X (formerly known as Twitter) at @Hut8Corp.

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward–Looking Information

    This press release includes “forward-looking information” and “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Canadian securities laws and United States securities laws, respectively (collectively, “forward-looking information”). All information, other than statements of historical facts, included in this press release that address activities, events or developments that Hut 8 expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future, including such things as future business strategy, competitive strengths, goals, expansion and growth of the business, operations, plans and other such matters is forward-looking information. Forward-looking information is often identified by the words “may”, “would”, “could”, “should”, “will”, “intend”, “plan”, “anticipate”, “allow”, “believe”, “estimate”, “expect”, “predict”, “can”, “might”, “potential”, “predict”, “is designed to”, “likely” or similar expressions. Specifically, such forward-looking information included in this press release includes statements relating to the execution, timing and potential revenues for the hosting deployment at our Vega site, the timing and completion of a fleet upgrade, and the advancement of the Company’s pipeline.

    Statements containing forward-looking information are not historical facts, but instead represent management’s expectations, estimates and projections regarding future events based on certain material factors and assumptions at the time the statement was made. While considered reasonable by Hut 8 as of the date of this press release, such statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including but not limited to, security and cybersecurity threats and hacks; malicious actors or botnet obtaining control of processing power on the Bitcoin network; further development and acceptance of the Bitcoin network; changes to Bitcoin mining difficulty; loss or destruction of private keys; increases in fees for recording transactions in the Blockchain; erroneous transactions; reliance on a limited number of key employees; reliance on third party mining pool service providers; regulatory changes; classification and tax changes; momentum pricing risk; fraud and failure related to digital asset exchanges; difficulty in obtaining banking services and financing; difficulty in obtaining insurance, permits and licenses; internet and power disruptions; geopolitical events; uncertainty in the development of cryptographic and algorithmic protocols; uncertainty about the acceptance or widespread use of digital assets; failure to anticipate technology innovations; the COVID19 pandemic, climate change; currency risk; lending risk and recovery of potential losses; litigation risk; business integration risk; changes in market demand; changes in network and infrastructure; system interruption; changes in leasing arrangements; failure to achieve intended benefits of power purchase agreements; potential for interrupted delivery, or suspension of the delivery, of energy to mining sites and other risks related to the digital asset mining and data center business. For a complete list of the factors that could affect Hut 8, please see the “Risk Factors” section of Hut 8’s Transition Report on Form 10-K, available under the Company’s EDGAR profile at www.sec.gov, and Hut 8’s other continuous disclosure documents which are available under the Company’s SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca and EDGAR profile at www.sec.gov.

    Hut 8 Corp. Investor Relations
    Sue Ennis
    ir@hut8.com

    Hut 8 Corp. Media Relations
    media@hut8.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Adam Ferrari and Phoenix Capital Group Sponsor STEM and Mental Health Initiatives with West Point Society of North Texas

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DALLAS, Nov. 05, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Adam Ferrari, CEO of Phoenix Capital Group, announced a $2,000 sponsorship in collaboration with The West Point Society of North Texas to advance STEM education and mental health resources within the region. This sponsorship reflects Ferrari’s dedication to supporting impactful community programs that align with Phoenix Capital Group’s mission of giving back through education and well-being initiatives.

    Founded in 2019, Phoenix Capital Group Holdings, LLC is a leading oil and gas mineral rights acquisition and investment firm dedicated to discovering untapped value for landowners across the United States. As a technology-driven organization, Phoenix Capital Group specializes in mineral acquisitions and investment opportunities.

    The West Point Society of North Texas, composed of USMA graduates, is committed to building leaders of character through its focus on leadership, ethics, and STEM education. A portion of the sponsorship will fund the Society’s Leadership Ethics and Diversity in STEM (LEADS) Workshop, which prepares 7th-12th grade students to become STEM-competent leaders through hands-on activities led by West Point cadets, faculty, and subject matter experts. Students will also have the opportunity to compete for over $5,000 in scholarships, further encouraging excellence and leadership.

    “Through this partnership, we are proud to support future leaders and extend opportunities to underrepresented populations in North Texas,” said Adam Ferrari. “Phoenix Capital Group is committed to investing in communities and ensuring access to education and resources that foster both personal and academic growth.”

    In addition to promoting STEM learning, the event also raised funds for Compassion Neuroscience, an organization offering electromagnetic therapy to heal neurological pathways. This cutting-edge treatment provides relief to individuals struggling with conditions such as PTSD and postpartum depression, ensuring a positive impact across diverse populations, including active and retired service members.

    Phoenix Capital Group’s sponsorship highlights its ongoing efforts to enhance community well-being through strategic philanthropy. “Whether through educational or mental health support, we are passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals,” Ferrari emphasized.

    Altogether, the charity event successfully raised more than $40,000, which will be directed toward providing crucial support for both STEM students and Compassion Neuroscience.

    About Phoenix Capital Group
    Phoenix Capital Group Holdings, LLC is dedicated to promoting meaningful community engagement and fostering positive change through strategic philanthropy. Specializing in oil and gas mineral rights acquisition, investment, and operated working interests, Phoenix Capital Group partners with landowners across the country to uncover hidden value and maximize their assets.

    Under the leadership of CEO Adam Ferrari, Phoenix Capital Group supports a variety of initiatives aimed at empowering individuals and enhancing communities. With over 60 years of combined experience in the energy sector, the company is not only committed to delivering innovative solutions but also to investing in the future by supporting and equipping the next generation of STEM leaders.

    Contact:
    Name: Brynn Ferrari
    Email: PublicRelations@phxcapitalgroup.com
    Organization: Phoenix Capital Group Holdings, LLC
    Address: 18575 Jamboree Road, Suite 830, Irvine, CA 92612
    Phone: 303-376-9778
    Website: https://www.phxcapitalgroup.com/

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese premier meets with Mongolian PM in Shanghai

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

    Chinese Premier Li Qiang meets with Mongolian Prime Minister Luvsannamsrai Oyun-Erdene, who is in China to attend the seventh China International Import Expo, in east China’s Shanghai, Nov. 5, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    SHANGHAI, Nov. 5 — Chinese Premier Li Qiang on Tuesday met with Mongolian Prime Minister Luvsannamsrai Oyun-Erdene, who is in Shanghai to attend the seventh China International Import Expo (CIIE).

    Li said that under the strategic guidance of the two heads of state, China and Mongolia have maintained sound, stable momentum in their bilateral relations in recent years. China values its friendly cooperation with Mongolia highly, and considers Mongolia a priority in its neighborhood diplomacy, he noted.

    He said that both sides should implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state to deepen practical cooperation for the benefit of the two peoples.

    Li noted that China will synergize its development strategy with Mongolia further, step up trade and investment cooperation, and enhance cooperation on infrastructure construction in such areas as port connectivity, mining and hydropower stations.

    The premier encouraged both sides to tap into the cooperation potential of emerging industries such as the high-tech and green development sectors, and support more capable Chinese enterprises to invest and do business in Mongolia.

    China will work with Mongolia and other Asian countries in the pursuit of peace, solidarity and cooperation, and enhance exchange and coordination within the frameworks of multilateral mechanisms such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

    Oyun-Erdene said that Mongolia abides firmly by the one-China policy, and is willing to maintain mutual respect and support on issues bearing on each other’s core interests.

    Mongolia stands ready to deepen mutually beneficial cooperation with China in such areas as energy, urban planning and desertification control, and explore cooperation in new fields including artificial intelligence, green development and human resources, he said.

    Chinese Premier Li Qiang meets with Mongolian Prime Minister Luvsannamsrai Oyun-Erdene, who is in China to attend the seventh China International Import Expo, in east China’s Shanghai, Nov. 5, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese premier meets Serbian PM

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

    Chinese Premier Li Qiang meets with Serbian Prime Minister Milos Vucevic, who is in China to attend the 7th China International Import Expo, in Shanghai, east China, Nov. 5, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    SHANGHAI, Nov. 5 — Chinese Premier Li Qiang met with Serbian Prime Minister Milos Vucevic in Shanghai on Tuesday, who is here to attend the 7th China International Import Expo (CIIE).

    Noting that China always attaches great importance to its relations with Serbia, Li said that China stands ready to work with Serbia to further implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state, maintain close strategic communication, deepen political mutual trust, firmly support each other’s core interests and major concerns, take bilateral cooperation in various fields to a new level, and advance the building of a China-Serbia community with a shared future in a new era with high quality.

    Li said that China is willing to work with Serbia to strengthen the docking of development strategies, jointly implement the China-Serbia free trade agreement, build and operate key cooperation projects, accelerate cooperation in green, digital and artificial intelligence innovation areas, and achieve more mutually beneficial and win-win results.

    It is hoped that Serbia will continue to provide a sound business environment for Chinese enterprises to invest and do business in Serbia, Li said, adding that the two sides should further deepen exchanges and cooperation on culture, tourism, education, sports, media and youth to consolidate popular support for building a China-Serbia community with a shared future.

    Vucevic said Serbia firmly abides by the one-China principle, appreciates China for its firm support on issues concerning Serbia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and looks forward to closer exchanges with China, well implementing the bilateral free trade agreement under the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative, deepening practical cooperation in such fields as economy and trade, education, science and technology, medical and health care, transportation and agriculture, and strengthening people-to-people exchanges.

    Chinese Premier Li Qiang meets with Serbian Prime Minister Milos Vucevic, who is in China to attend the 7th China International Import Expo, in Shanghai, east China, Nov. 5, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese premier meets Malaysian PM in Shanghai

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

    Chinese Premier Li Qiang meets with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who is in China to attend the seventh China International Import Expo, in east China’s Shanghai, Nov. 5, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    SHANGHAI, Nov. 5 — Chinese Premier Li Qiang met on Tuesday with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who is in Shanghai to attend the 7th China International Import Expo.

    Li said that China-Malaysia relations have entered a new stage of historical development and are moving steadily toward the goal of building a China-Malaysia community with a shared future.

    He said that China is ready to work with Malaysia to implement the important consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries, uphold mutual respect and mutual trust, treat each other as equals and cooperate for win-win results, working together to achieve common development and prosperity of the two countries.

    Li said China is willing to continue with firmly supporting each other on issues involving each other’s core interests and major concerns, strengthening the docking of development strategies and the exchange of experience in governance, improving the layout of cooperation in various fields, and boosting the modernization process of the two countries with high-level strategic cooperation.

    He called on the two sides to steadily advance flagship projects such as the East Coast Rail Link and the Malaysia-China “Two Countries, Twin Parks,” tap into the cooperation potential in emerging areas, and constantly expand new space for cooperation.

    China will continue to promote cultural exchanges and mutual learning with Malaysia, strengthen cooperation on education and visa facilitation, and encourage the two peoples, especially the youth, to visit each other more often to enhance mutual understanding and friendship, he said.

    Li said China will strongly support Malaysia in assuming the rotating presidency of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) next year, and is ready to strengthen coordination and cooperation with Malaysia within China-ASEAN and other multilateral frameworks to jointly advance regional economic integration, safeguard ASEAN centrality and safeguard the peaceful development of Asia.

    Anwar noted that China is Malaysia’s good friend and good partner. Malaysia is willing to deepen Belt and Road cooperation with China, promote cooperation in such areas as trade, investment, digital economy and education, and enhance people-to-people exchanges, he added.

    Malaysia supports China in joining the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, said Anwar.

    He noted that as the rotating presidency of ASEAN next year, Malaysia will take this opportunity to enhance coordination with China on international and regional issues.

    Chinese Premier Li Qiang meets with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who is in China to attend the seventh China International Import Expo, in east China’s Shanghai, Nov. 5, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI: SHAREHOLDER ALERT: The M&A Class Action Firm Investigates the Merger of Staffing 360 Solutions, Inc. – STAF

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Nov. 05, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    Monteverde & Associates PC (the “M&A Class Action Firm”), has recovered money for shareholders and is recognized as a Top 50 Firm in the 2018-2022 ISS Securities Class Action Services Report. We are headquartered at the Empire State Building in New York City and are investigating Staffing 360 Solutions, Inc. (Nasdaq: STAF), relating to a proposed merger with Atlantic International Corp. Under the terms of the agreement, Staffing 360 shareholders will receive 1.202 Atlantic shares for each Staffing 360 share. Atlantic and Staffing 360 shareholders will own approximately 90% and 10%, respectively, of the combined company.

    Click here for more information https://monteverdelaw.com/case/staffing-360-solutions-inc-staf/. It is free and there is no cost or obligation to you.

    NOT ALL LAW FIRMS ARE THE SAME. Before you hire a law firm, you should talk to a lawyer and ask:

    1. Do you file class actions and go to Court?
    2. When was the last time you recovered money for shareholders?
    3. What cases did you recover money in and how much?

    About Monteverde & Associates PC

    Our firm litigates and has recovered money for shareholders…and we do it from our offices in the Empire State Building. We are a national class action securities firm with a successful track record in trial and appellate courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court. 

    No company, director or officer is above the law. If you own common stock in the above listed company and have concerns or wish to obtain additional information free of charge, please visit our website or contact Juan Monteverde, Esq. either via e-mail at jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com or by telephone at (212) 971-1341.

    Contact:
    Juan Monteverde, Esq.
    MONTEVERDE & ASSOCIATES PC
    The Empire State Building
    350 Fifth Ave. Suite 4740
    New York, NY 10118
    United States of America
    jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com
    Tel: (212) 971-1341

    Attorney Advertising. (C) 2024 Monteverde & Associates PC. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Monteverde & Associates PC (www.monteverdelaw.com). Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Alaris Equity Partners Income Trust Releases 2024 Third Quarter Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION IN THE UNITED STATES.

    FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THIS RESTRICTION MAY CONSTITUTE A VIOLATION OF UNITED STATES SECURITIES LAW.

    TSX-AD.UN

    CALGARY, Alberta, Nov. 05, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Alaris Equity Partners Income Trust (together, as applicable, with its subsidiaries, “Alaris” or the “Trust“) is pleased to announce its results for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024. The results are prepared in accordance with IFRS Accounting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board. All amounts below are in Canadian dollars unless otherwise noted.

    In January 2024, Alaris determined that it met the definition of an investment entity, as defined by IFRS 10, Consolidated financial statements. This change in status has fundamentally changed how Alaris prepares, presents and discusses its financial results relative to prior periods. IFRS requires that this change in accounting be made prospectively and as a result prior periods are not restated to reflect the change in Alaris’ investment entity status. Accordingly, the readers of this press release, Alaris’ third quarter interim MD&A and unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements should exercise significant caution in reviewing, considering, and drawing conclusions from period-to-period comparisons and changes, as the direct comparisons between dates or across periods can be inappropriate if not carefully considered in this context.

    Highlights:

    • For the three months ended September 30, 2024 Alaris generated $0.78 per unit of additional book value, improving this metric to $22.80;
    • For the three months ended September 30, 2024 the Trust, together with its wholly-owned subsidiaries (the “Acquisition Entities”), earned a total of $65.9 million of revenue, including, $65.4 million of Partner Distribution revenue net of foreign exchange, and $0.5 million of transaction fee income, which was ahead of previous guidance of $38.7 million, and compares to $47.2 million of Partner Revenue in Q3 2023, an increase of 40%;
      • Included in Partner Distribution revenue for the three months ended September 30, 2024, is $27.5 million of common Distributions, which included a one time distribution of US$5.1 million from Ohana Growth Partners LLC (“Ohana“) and US$14.7 million distribution from Fleet Advantage, LLC (“Fleet”). Common Distribution revenue for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 is $31.8 million, which for the second quarter in a row has outperformed the comparable period in the prior year by more than double. Alaris’ Run Rate Revenue (7) included in the outlook below has been increased to reflect overall higher expected annual common dividends from Partners of $19.4 million;
    • Alaris net distributable cash flow (6) for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 of $88.0 million or $1.93 per unit increased by 28%, from $68.6 million and $1.51 per unit in the nine months ended September 30, 2023 after adjusting the comparable period for non-recurring settlement and litigation costs that occurred in 2023;
    • The Actual Payout Ratio (2) for the Trust, based on Alaris net distributable cash flow (6) for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 was 53%;
    • The current weighted average combined Earnings Coverage Ratio (3) for Alaris’ Partners remains at approximately 1.5x with ten of nineteen Partners at 1.5x or above. In addition, eleven of our partners have either no debt or less than 1.0x Senior Debt to EBITDA on a trailing twelve-month basis;
    • During the quarter, the Trust, via the Acquisition Entities, invested approximately US$35 million into Ohana as a dividend recap in exchange for convertible preferred equity with a 14% yield fully paid-in-kind;
    • Subsequent to the quarter end, the Trust, via the Acquisition Entities, made a follow-on investment of US$10.0 million of additional preferred equity in Cresa LLC (“Cresa”), which has the same metrics as the initial preferred equity investment, bringing the total investment in Cresa to US$30.0 million. Following this transaction, the Trust has invested a total of approximately $139 million in the year.

    “In addition to highlighting the continued stability of Alaris’ portfolio and cash flow stream, the third quarter results continue to show the growing success and importance of our common equity portfolio. While some of this quarter’s common equity cash flow is non-recurring in nature, we are seeing more and more value from that strategy crystallizing into cash returns. Deployment activity is constructive for the end of the year and both interest rate cuts and US dollar strength provide us with tailwinds going into next year, ” said Steve King President and CEO.

    Results of Operations

    Note where the financial information for Q3 2024 is comparable to specific information from the prior period Q3 2023 condensed consolidated interim financial statements, amounts have been provided for comparative purposes. As noted above, users of this press release, interim management discussion and analysis and the unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements to which it relates should exercise significant caution in reviewing, considering and drawing conclusions from period-to-period comparisons and changes.

    Per Unit Results Three months ended Nine months ended
    Period ending September 30   2024   2023 % Change   2024   2023 % Change
    Partner related changes in net gain on Corporate Investment $ 2.16 $ 1.90 +13.7 % $ 4.11 $ 3.74 +9.9 %
    Adjusted EBITDA $ 1.98 $ 1.76 +12.5 % $ 3.62 $ 3.40 +6.5 %
    Alaris net distributable cashflow $ 0.72 $ 0.44 +63.6 % $ 1.93 $ 1.21 +59.5 %
    Adjusted earning per unit $ 1.37 $ 1.31 +4.6 % $ 2.35 $ 2.15 +9.3 %
    Weighted average basic units (000’s)   45,498   45,498     45,498   45,433  

    During the three months ended September 30, 2024, Partner related changes in net gain on Corporate Investments (5) per unit increased by 13.7% as compared to the three months ended September 30, 2023. During the current quarter common Partner Distribution revenue increased by more than 200%, primarily as a result of common Distributions received from Fleet of US$14.7 million, which was greater than their prior year Distribution of US$5.9 million, and a common Distribution received from Ohana of US$5.1 million, as compared to nil distribution received in Q3 2023. Partially offsetting this increase is a quarter over quarter decrease to the Net unrealized gain on partner investments of 16.3% to $33.0 million during the three months ended September 30, 2024. Q3 2024’s Net unrealized gain on Partner investments of $33.0 million is made up of notable increases to the fair value in Sono Bello, LLC (“Sono Bello“), Amur Financial Group Inc. (“Amur”), Fleet, Vehicle Leasing Holdings, LLC, dba D&M Leasing (“D&M”), and The Shipyard, LLC (“Shipyard”), which were partially offset by decreases to the fair value of Heritage Restoration, LLC (“Heritage”) and SCR Mining and Tunneling, LP (“SCR”). During the nine months ended September 30, 2024, Partner related changes in net gain on Corporate Investments (5) per unit increased by 9.9% as compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2023. This increase is reflective of increases in Partner Distribution revenue, partially offset by a lower net gain to the realized and unrealized fair value on Partner investments. Net realized gain on partner investments of $9.0 million and net unrealized gain of $32.4 million decreased in the nine months ended September 30, 2024 by 29.2% and 13.9%, respectively, as compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2023.

    For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, Adjusted EBITDA (1) per unit increased by 12.5% and 6.5%, respectively, as compared to the relative periods in 2023. Per unit increases are primarily due to higher Partner Distribution revenue. Partially offsetting these increases are decreases to the net realized and unrealized gain on Partner Investments relative to the comparable periods in 2023, and higher adjusted operating expenses; after non-reoccurring litigation and legal costs that were incurred in 2023 have been removed in the calculation Adjusted EBITDA (1).

    Alaris net distributable cashflow (6) provides a summary of third-party cash receipts, less operating cash outflows by the Trust in combination with the Acquisition Entities. Alaris net distributable cashflow (6) per unit increased by 63.6% in the three months ended September 30, 2024 and 59.5% in the nine months ended September 30, 2024, both as compared to the same periods in 2023. Period over period increases are due to the current periods higher common Distributions and lower cash taxes paid, all as compared to the relative periods in 2023. The nine months ended September 30, 2024 Alaris net distributable cashflow (6) is $88.0 million, after adjusting out non-recurring settlement and litigation costs of $13.7 million in the prior year, the nine months ended September 30, 2023 distributable cashflow amounts to $68.6 million, and results in an adjusted period over period increase of 28.3%.

    Adjusted earnings (10) per unit increased by 4.6% in the three months ended September 30, 2024 which is primarily driven by higher Partner related changes in net gain on Corporate Investments (5) as discussed above, and partially offset by higher total income tax expense in Q3 2024. The nine months ended September 30, 2024, Adjusted earnings (10) per unit increased by 9.3% which in addition to the changes listed for the three months ended September 30, 2024, is higher due to lower operating expenses during the nine months ended September 30, 2024 as compared to the prior year resulting from non-recurring litigation and legal costs incurred in 2023.

    Outlook

    During the three months ended September 30, 2024, the Trust, through its Acquisition Entities invested approximately $48 million, which was used to invest in convertible preferred units of Ohana. Subsequent to the quarter, Alaris invested an additional US$10.0 million into Cresa, bringing Alaris’ total investment in Cresa to US$30.0 million and as of the date of this MD&A the total invested during the year to approximately $139 million. These transactions are summarized in the outlook below, which includes Alaris’ Run Rate Revenue (7) for the next twelve months and is expected to be approximately $171 million. This includes current contracted amounts, an additional $1.2 million from LMS related to Distributions deferred in 2023 and an estimated $19.4 million of common dividends. In Q3 2024, the Trust together with its Acquisition Entities earned $65.9 million, $65.4 million in Partner Distributions net of foreign exchange and $0.5 million of third party transaction fee revenue, which was ahead of previous guidance of $38.7 million, primarily due to common distributions received from Fleet of $19.8 million, Ohana of $6.8 million and Amur of $0.5 million, as well as a higher realized foreign exchange rate on US denominated distributions. As with all common distributions, these distributions are not fixed or set in advance, but rather paid as declared and cashflow of partner permits. Alaris expects total revenue from its Partners in Q4 2024 of approximately $38.9 million.

    The Run Rate Cash Flow (8) table below outlines the Trust and its Acquisitions Entities combined expectation for Partners Distribution revenue, transaction fee revenue, general and administrative expenses, third party interest expense, tax expense and distributions to unitholders for the next twelve months. The Run Rate Cash Flow (8) is a forward looking supplementary financial measure and outlines the net cash from operating activities, less the distributions paid, that Alaris is expecting to generate over the next twelve months. The Trust’s method of calculating this measure may differ from the methods used by other issuers. Therefore, it may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers.

    Run rate general and administrative expenses are currently estimated at $17.0 million and include all public company costs incurred by the Trust and its Acquisition Entities. The Trust’s Run Rate Payout Ratio (9) is expected to be within a range of 65% and 70% when including Run Rate Revenue (7), overhead expenses and its existing capital structure. The table below sets out our estimated Run Rate Cash Flow (8) as well as the after-tax impact of positive net investment, the impact of every 1% increase in Secure Overnight Financing Rate (“SOFR”) based on current outstanding USD debt and the impact of every $0.01 change in the USD to CAD exchange rate.

    Alaris’ financial statements and MD&A are available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and on our website at www.alarisequitypartners.com.

    Run Rate Cash Flow ($ thousands except per unit) Amount ($) $ / Unit
    Run Rate Revenue, Partner Distribution revenue $ 171,300   $ 3.77  
    General and administrative expenses   (17,000 )   (0.37 )
    Third party Interest and taxes     (57,100 )   (1.26 )
    Net cash from operating activities $ 97,200   $ 2.14  
    Distributions paid     (61,900 )   (1.36 )
    Run Rate Cash Flow   $ 35,300   $ 0.78  
           
    Other considerations (after taxes and interest):    
    New investments Every $50 million deployed @ 14%   +2,426     +0.05  
    Interest rates Every 1.0% increase in SOFR   -2,600     -0.06  
    USD to CAD Every $0.01 change of USD to CAD   +/- 900     +/- 0.02  


    Earnings Release Date and Conference Call Details

    Alaris management will host a conference call at 9am MT (11am ET), Wednesday, November 6, 2024 to discuss the financial results and outlook for the Trust.

    Participants must register for the call using this link: Q3 2024 Conference Call. Pre-register to receive the dial-in numbers and unique PIN to access the call seamlessly. It is recommended that you join 10 minutes prior to the event start (although you may register and dial in at any time during the call). Participants can access the webcast here: Q3 Webcast. A replay of the webcast will be available two hours after the call and archived on the same web page for six months. Participants can also find the link on our website, stored under the “Investors” section – “Presentations and Events”, at www.alarisequitypartners.com.

    An updated corporate presentation will be posted to the Trust’s website within 24 hours at www.alarisequitypartners.com.

    About the Trust:

    Alaris’ investment and investing activity refers to providing, through the Acquisition Entities, alternative equity to private companies (“Partners”) to meet their business and capital objectives, which includes management buyouts, dividend recapitalization, growth and acquisitions. Alaris achieves this by investing its unitholder capital, as well as debt, through the Acquisition Entities, in exchange for distributions, dividends or interest (collectively, “Distributions”) as well as capital appreciation on both preferred and common equity, with the principal objectives of generating predictable cash flows for distribution payments to its unitholders and growing net book value through returns from capital appreciation. Distributions, other than common equity Distributions, from the Partners are adjusted annually based on the percentage change of a “top-line” financial performance measure such as gross margin or same store sales and rank in priority to common equity position.

    Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures

    The terms Adjusted Earnings, components of Corporate investments, EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Extended group net distributable cashflow, Earnings Coverage Ratio, Run Rate Payout Ratio, Actual Payout Ratio, Run Rate Revenue, Run Rate Cash Flow, and Per Unit amounts (collectively, the “Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures”) are financial measures used in this MD&A that are not standard measures under International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) . The Trust’s method of calculating the Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures may differ from the methods used by other issuers. Therefore, the Trust’s Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers.

    (1) “Adjusted EBITDA” and “EBITDA”: are Non-GAAP financial measures and refer to earnings determined in accordance with IFRS, before depreciation and amortization, interest expense (finance costs) and income tax expense. EBITDA is used by management and many investors to determine the ability of an issuer to generate cash from operations. “Adjusted EBITDA” and “Adjusted EBITDA per unit”, which is a non-GAAP ratio that removes the impact from unrealized fluctuations in exchange rates and their impact on the Trust’s investments at fair value, as well as one time items and the impact of finance costs and taxes included within the net gain on Corporate Investments incurred by the Acquisition Entities and, on a per unit basis, is and the same amount divided by weighted average basic units outstanding. Management believes Adjusted EBITDA, EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA per unit are useful supplemental measures from which to determine the Trust’s ability to generate cash available for servicing its loans and borrowings, income taxes and distributions to unitholders. The Trust’s method of calculating these Non-GAAP financial measures may differ from the methods used by other issuers. Therefore, they may not be comparable to similar measures and ratios presented by other issuers.

      Three months ended September 30 Nine months ended September 30
    $ thousands except per unit amounts   2024   2023   % Change   2024     2023 % Change
    Earnings $ 51,027 $ 63,770     $ 156,475   $ 97,710  
    Depreciation and amortization   135   58       396     169  
    Finance costs   1,150   8,510       3,445     21,909  
    Total income tax expense   251   11,611       554     20,902  
    EBITDA $ 52,563 $ 83,949   -37.4 % $ 160,870   $ 140,690 +14.3 %
    Adjustments:            
    Gain on derecognition of previously consolidated entities $ $     $ (30,260 ) $  
    Foreign exchange   11,334   (3,947 )     (19,224 )   156  
    Sandbox litigation and legal costs     21           13,697  
    Finance costs, senior credit facility and convertible debentures   6,962         22,193      
    Acquisition Entities income tax expense – current   2,987         10,018      
    Acquisition Entities income tax expense – deferred   16,109         21,272      
    Adjusted EBITDA $ 89,955 $ 80,023   +12.4 % $ 164,869   $ 154,543 +6.7 %
    Adjusted EBITDA per unit $ 1.98 $ 1.76   +12.5 % $ 3.62   $ 3.40 +6.5 %

    (2) “Actual Payout Ratio” is a supplementary financial measure and refers to Alaris’ total distributions paid during the period (annually or quarterly) divided by the actual net cash from operating activities Alaris generated for the period. It represents the net cash from operating activities after distributions paid to unitholders available for either repayments of senior debt and/or to be used in investing activities.

    (3) “Earnings Coverage Ratio (“ECR”)” is a supplementary financial measure and refers to the EBITDA of a Partner divided by such Partner’s sum of debt servicing (interest and principal), unfunded capital expenditures and distributions to Alaris. Management believes the earnings coverage ratio is a useful metric in assessing our partners continued ability to make their contracted distributions.

    (4) “Net book value” and “net book value per unit” are Non-GAAP financial measures and represents the equity value of the company or total assts less total liabilities and the same amount divided by weighted average basic units outstanding. Net book value and net book value per unit are used by management to determine the growth in assets over the period net of amounts paid out to unitholders as distributions. Management believes net book value and net book value per unit are useful supplemental measures from which to compare the Trust’s growth period over period. The Trust’s method of calculating these Non-GAAP financial measures may differ from the methods used by other issuers. Therefore, they may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers.

        30-Sep   30-Jun   31-Dec
    $ thousands except per unit amounts   2024   2024   2023
    Total Assets $ 1,130,415 $ 1,093,177 $ 1,474,894
    Total Liabilities $ 93,236 $ 91,556 $ 514,071
    Net book value $ 1,037,179 $ 1,001,621 $ 960,823
    Weighted average basic units (000’s)   45,498   45,498   45,498
    Net book value per unit $ 22.80 $ 22.01 $ 21.12


    (5) “
    Partner related changes in net gain on Corporate Investments The components of Corporate Investments are Non-GAAP financial measures and are presented for better comparability to prior year reporting. These amounts are reconciled to information from note 3 of the condensed consolidated interim financial statements below. The Trust’s method of calculating these Non-GAAP financial measures may differ from the methods used by other issuers. Therefore, they may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers.

      Three months ended September 30 Nine months ended September 30
    $ thousands   2024   2023 % Change   2024   2023 % Change
    Partner Distribution revenue – Preferred, including realized foreign exchange Note 1 $ 37,895 $ 37,844 +0.1 % $ 113,936 $ 108,543 +5.0 %
    Partner Distribution revenue – Common $ 27,501 $ 8,815 +212.0 % $ 31,807 $ 10,903 +191.7 %
    Net realized gain from Partners investments $ 29 $ 167 -82.6 % $ 9,005 $ 12,716 -29.2 %
    Net unrealized gain on Partners investments $ 33,006 $ 39,428 -16.3 % $ 32,463 $ 37,688 -13.9 %
    Partner related changes in net gain on Corporate Investment $ 98,431 $ 86,254 +14.1 % $ 187,211 $ 169,850 +10.2 %
    Partner related changes in net gain on Corporate Investment per unit $ 2.16 $ 1.90 +13.7 % $ 4.11 $ 3.74 +9.9 %

    Note 1 – In Q2 2023, Partner Distribution revenue – Preferred, including realized foreign exchange and Partner Distribution revenue – Common were presented as one line on the face of the income statement titled “Revenues, including realized foreign exchange gain” in the amount of $36,853 for the three months ended and $73,541 for the six months ended. Prior period Partner Distribution revenue – Preferred, including realized foreign exchange for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024 above has been adjusted to exclude Sono Bello’s management fee income (Q2 2023 three months – $496, Q2 2023 six months ended – $753) for period over period comparability, which in 2024 is recognized in the Trust’s Management and advisory fee income.

    (6) “Alaris net distributable cashflow is a non-GAAP measure that refers to all sources of external revenue in both the Trust and the Acquisition Entities less all general and administrative expenses, third party interest expense and tax expense. Alaris net distributable cashflow is a useful metric for management and investors as it provides a summary of the total cash from operating activities that can be used to pay the Trust distribution, repay senior debt and/or be used for additional investment purposes. The Trust’s method of calculating this Non-GAAP measure may differ from the methods used by other issuers. Therefore, it may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. The 2023 comparatives are presented prior to the Trust’s change in status as a investment entity and have been aligned with the most comparative balance in the 2024 presentation.

      Three months ended September 30 Nine months ended September 30
    $ thousands except per unit amounts   2024     2023   % Change   2024     2023   % Change
    Partner Distribution revenue – Preferred, including realized foreign exchange $ 37,895   $ 37,844     $ 113,936   $ 108,543    
    Partner Distribution revenue – Common   27,501     8,815       31,807     10,903    
    Third party management and advisory fees   504     506       1,526     1,260    
                 
    Expenditures of the Trust:            
    General and administrative   (4,484 )   (3,087 )     (13,308 )   (23,476 )  
    Current income tax expense   (509 )         (1,345 )      
    Third party cash interest paid by the Trust   (2,031 )   (2,032 )     (4,062 )   (4,062 )  
                 
    Expenditures incurred by Acquisition Entities:            
    Operating costs and other   (1,087 )   (928 )     (2,846 )   (2,046 )  
    Transactions costs   (378 )   (1,693 )     (2,531 )   (3,204 )  
    Acquisition Entities income tax expense – current   (2,987 )   (6,954 )     (10,018 )   (13,156 )  
    Cash interest paid, senior credit facility and convertible debentures   (6,668 )   (6,329 )     (18,038 )   (12,586 )  
                 
    Alaris’ changes in net working capital   (14,922 )   (6,063 )     (7,106 )   (7,253 )  
    Alaris net distributable cashflow $ 32,834   $ 20,079   +63.5 % $ 88,015   $ 54,923   +60.3 %
    Alaris net distributable cashflow per unit $ 0.72   $ 0.44   +63.6 % $ 1.93   $ 1.21   +59.5 %

    (7) “Run Rate Revenue” is a supplementary financial measure and refers to Alaris’ total revenue expected to be generated over the next twelve months based on contracted distributions from current Partners, excluding any potential Partner redemptions, it also includes an estimate for common dividends or distributions based on past practices, where applicable. Run Rate Revenue is a useful metric as it provides an expectation for the amount of revenue Alaris can expect to generate in the next twelve months based on information known.

    (8) “Run Rate Cash Flow” is a Non-GAAP financial measure and outlines the net cash from operating activities, net of distributions paid, that Alaris is expecting to have after the next twelve months. This measure is comparable to net cash from operating activities less distributions paid, as outlined in Alaris’ consolidated statements of cash flows.

    (9) “Run Rate Payout Ratio” is a Non-GAAP financial ratio that refers to Alaris’ distributions per unit expected to be paid over the next twelve months divided by the net cash from operating activities per unit calculated in the Run Rate Cash Flow table. Run Rate Payout Ratio is a useful metric for Alaris to track and to outline as it provides a summary of the percentage of the net cash from operating activities that can be used to either repay senior debt during the next twelve months and/or be used for additional investment purposes. Run Rate Payout Ratio is comparable to Actual Payout Ratio as defined above.

    (10) “Adjusted Earnings” is a Non-GAAP financial measure and Non-GAAP Ratio and refer to earnings determined in accordance with IFRS, before impact of the one time gain on derecognition of previously consolidated entities and foreign exchange gain (loss) and the same amount divided by weighted average basic units outstanding. Adjusted earnings and Adjusted earnings per unit are used by management to determine earnings excluding fluctuations due to unrealized changes in exchange rates that impact earnings and specifically the fair value of Corporate investment. Management believes Adjusted earning and Adjusted earnings per unit are useful measures from which to compare the Trust’s earnings period over period. The Trust’s method of calculating these Non-GAAP financial measures and ratio may differ from the methods used by other issuers. Therefore, they may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers.

      Three months ended September 30 Nine months ended September 30
    $ thousands except per unit amounts   2024   2023   % Change   2024     2023 % Change
    Earnings $ 51,027 $ 63,770     $ 156,475   $ 97,710  
    Add back: Foreign exchange (gain) loss $ 11,334 $ (3,947 )   $ (19,224 ) $ 156  
    Add back: Gain on derecognition of previously consolidated entities $   na     $ (30,260 ) na  
    Adjusted earnings $ 62,361 $ 59,823   +4.2 % $ 106,991   $ 97,866 +9.3 %
    Adjusted earning per unit $ 1.37 $ 1.31   +4.6 % $ 2.35   $ 2.15 +9.3 %
                                 

    (11) “Per Unit” values, other than earnings per unit, refer to the related financial statement caption as defined under IFRS or related term as defined herein, divided by the weighted average basic units outstanding for the period.

    The terms Net Book Value, Components of Corporate investments, EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Alaris net distributable cashflow, Earnings Coverage Ratio, Run Rate Payout Ratio, Actual Payout Ratio, Run Rate Revenue, Run Rate Cash Flow and Per Unit amounts should only be used in conjunction with the Trust’s unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements, complete versions of which available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This news release contains forward-looking information and forward-looking statements (collectively, “forward-looking statements”) under applicable securities laws, including any applicable “safe harbor” provisions. Statements other than statements of historical fact contained in this news release are forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, management’s expectations, intentions and beliefs concerning the growth, results of operations, performance of the Trust and the Partners, the future financial position or results of the Trust, business strategy and plans and objectives of or involving the Trust or the Partners. Many of these statements can be identified by looking for words such as “believe”, “expects”, “will”, “intends”, “projects”, “anticipates”, “estimates”, “continues” or similar words or the negative thereof. In particular, this news release contains forward-looking statements regarding: the anticipated financial and operating performance of the Partners; the attractiveness of Alaris’ capital offering; the Trust’s Run Rate Payout Ratio, Run Rate Cash Flow, Run Rate Revenue and total revenue; the impact of recent new investments and follow-on investments; expectations regarding receipt (and amount of) any common equity distributions or dividends from Partners in which Alaris holds common equity, including the impact on the Trust’s net cash from operating activities, Run Rate Revenue, Run Rate Cash Flow and Run Rate Payout Ratio; the impact of future deployment; the Trust’s ability to deploy capital; the yield on the Trust’s investments and expected resets on Distributions; changes in SOFR and exchange rates; the impact of deferred Distributions and the timing of repayment there of; the Trust’s return on its investments; and Alaris’ expenses for 2024. To the extent any forward-looking statements herein constitute a financial outlook or future oriented financial information (collectively, “FOFI”), including estimates regarding revenues, Distributions from Partners (restarting full or partial Distributions and common equity distributions), Run Rate Payout Ratio, Run Rate Cash Flow, net cash from operating activities, expenses and impact of capital deployment, they were approved by management as of the date hereof and have been included to provide an understanding with respect to Alaris’ financial performance and are subject to the same risks and assumptions disclosed herein. There can be no assurance that the plans, intentions or expectations upon which these forward-looking statements are based will occur.

    By their nature, forward-looking statements require Alaris to make assumptions and are subject to inherent risks and uncertainties. Assumptions about the performance of the Canadian and U.S. economies over the next 24 months and how that will affect Alaris’ business and that of its Partners (including, without limitation, the impact of any global health crisis, like COVID-19, and global economic and political factors) are material factors considered by Alaris management when setting the outlook for Alaris. Key assumptions include, but are not limited to, assumptions that: the Russia/Ukraine conflict, conflicts in the Middle East, and other global economic pressures over the next twelve months will not materially impact Alaris, its Partners or the global economy; interest rates will not rise in a matter materially different from the prevailing market expectation over the next 12 months; global heath crises, like COVID-19 or variants thereof, will not impact the economy or our Partners operations in a material way in the next 12 months; the businesses of the majority of our Partners will continue to grow; more private companies will require access to alternative sources of capital; the businesses of new Partners and those of existing Partners will perform in line with Alaris’ expectations and diligence; and that Alaris will have the ability to raise required equity and/or debt financing on acceptable terms. Management of Alaris has also assumed that the Canadian and U.S. dollar trading pair will remain in a range of approximately plus or minus 15% of the current rate over the next 6 months. In determining expectations for economic growth, management of Alaris primarily considers historical economic data provided by the Canadian and U.S. governments and their agencies as well as prevailing economic conditions at the time of such determinations.

    There can be no assurance that the assumptions, plans, intentions or expectations upon which these forward-looking statements are based will occur. Forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions and should not be read as guarantees or assurances of future performance. The actual results of the Trust and the Partners could materially differ from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements contained herein as a result of certain risk factors, including, but not limited to, the following: widespread health crises is, like COVID-19 (or its variants), other global economic factors (including, without limitation, the Russia/Ukraine conflict, conflicts in the Middle East, inflationary measures and global supply chain disruptions on the global economy, Trust and the Partners (including how many Partners will experience a slowdown of their business and the length of time of such slowdown)), the dependence of Alaris on the Partners, including any new investment structures; leverage and restrictive covenants under credit facilities; reliance on key personnel; failure to complete or realize the anticipated benefit of Alaris’ financing arrangements with the Partners; a failure to obtain required regulatory approvals on a timely basis or at all; changes in legislation and regulations and the interpretations thereof; risks relating to the Partners and their businesses, including, without limitation, a material change in the operations of a Partner or the industries they operate in; inability to close additional Partner contributions or collect proceeds from any redemptions in a timely fashion on anticipated terms, or at all; a failure to settle outstanding litigation on expected terms, or at all; a change in the ability of the Partners to continue to pay Alaris at expected Distribution levels or restart distributions (in full or in part); a failure to collect material deferred Distributions; a change in the unaudited information provided to the Trust; and a failure to realize the benefits of any concessions or relief measures provided by Alaris to any Partner or to successfully execute an exit strategy for a Partner where desired. Additional risks that may cause actual results to vary from those indicated are discussed under the heading “Risk Factors” and “Forward Looking Statements” in Alaris’ Management Discussion and Analysis and Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2023, which is or will be (in the case of the AIF) filed under Alaris’ profile at www.sedarplus.ca and on its website at www.alarisequitypartners.com.

    Readers are cautioned that the assumptions used in the preparation of forward-looking statements, including FOFI, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, based on information in Alaris’ possession as of the date hereof, may prove to be imprecise. In addition, there are a number of factors that could cause Alaris’ actual results, performance or achievement to differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, forward looking statements and FOFI, or if any of them do so occur, what benefits the Trust will derive therefrom. As such, undue reliance should not be placed on any forward-looking statements, including FOFI.

    The Trust has included the forward-looking statements and FOFI in order to provide readers with a more complete perspective on Alaris’ future operations and such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. The forward-looking statements, including FOFI, contained herein are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. Alaris disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

    For more information please contact:

    Investor Relations
    Alaris Equity Partners Income Trust
    403-260-1457
    ir@alarisequity.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: BitMart Adds UAH Into Its P2P Marketplace to Enhance User Experience

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Mahe, Seychelles, Nov. 05, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —  BitMart, a leading global cryptocurrency exchange, is excited to announce that it has officially added the Ukrainian Hryvnia (UAH) to its peer-to-peer (P2P) trading marketplace. This strategic addition underscores BitMart’s commitment to diversifying trading options and providing users with more convenient ways to manage cryptocurrency transactions.

    The integration of UAH into BitMart’s P2P marketplace reflects the growing demand for accessible and adaptable payment solutions. In a world where personal finance and digital asset management are evolving rapidly, the ability to transact in multiple currencies is crucial. By including UAH, BitMart ensures its users can benefit from a broader range of currency transactions, further simplifying deposits and withdrawals while maintaining high security standards and low entry barriers. BitMart’s UAH market also offers a competitive buy price, putting it ahead of other exchanges and providing users with a cost-effective option for trading UAH.

    In celebration of adding UAH to BitMart’s P2P Marketplace, BitMart launched the event “UAH Exclusive Event: Easy to Share 1000 USDT Rewards,” running until Nov. 18, 2024. To learn how to participate, please visit https://www.bitmart.com/activity/UAH-trading/en-US.
    For more information, please visit BitMart’s P2P Trading marketplace.

    About BitMart
    BitMart is the premier global digital asset trading platform. With millions of users worldwide and ranked among the top crypto exchanges on CoinGecko, it currently offers 1,500+ trading pairs with competitive trading fees. Constantly evolving and growing, BitMart is interested in crypto’s potential to drive innovation and promote financial inclusion. To learn more about BitMart, visit their Website, follow their X (Twitter), or join their Telegram for updates, news, and promotions. Download BitMart App to trade anytime, anywhere.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI China: World Urban Forum participants praise China’s efforts to promote urban greening

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

    CAIRO, Nov. 5 — Participants at the 12th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF12) in Egypt on Tuesday spoken highly of the Chinese experience in promoting green cities.

    “The Chinese steps towards urban greening, with much focus on promoting the concept of nature in cities, are noticeable,” said Simon Borelli, urban forestry officer and coordinator of Green Cities Initiatives Forestry Division of the UN Food and Agriculture Organization.

    “Looking at recreating natural ecosystems, and not just rows of trees and plantations, is an essential step forward for making cities more resilient and more prepared for climate change,” he added, stressing that China has been working on building park cities with a more holistic view.

    Noting China’s focus on improving urban living, the coordinator said its experience could benefit Africa, home to the largest number of developing countries.

    Shi Nan, secretary general of the Urban Planning Society of China, said, “We are trying to share our experiences and also the lessons regarding sustainable development.”

    “The city is not only … a settlement for people, but also the home for animals, forest, trees, and grasses,” he said.

    Regarding Egypt’s urban development, Shi said he was impressed by Egypt’s rich civilization, which has played a significant role in the country’s urban growth.

    There is significant potential for cooperation between China and Egypt, both of which boast ancient civilizations, he added.

    Co-organized by the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) and the Egyptian government, the WUF12 commenced on Monday and will continue until Friday.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI: AvePoint Launches AI Lab in Singapore to Drive Industry-Focused Innovation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, Nov. 06, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — AvePoint (Nasdaq: AVPT), the global leader in data management and data governance, today announced the launch of its AI Lab, supported by the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB), to advance AI-driven research and innovation in the cutting-edge domains of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning. The AI Lab is set to address global industry challenges by fostering new research and embedding AI across the AvePoint Confidence Platform.

    The AI Lab will serve as a central hub for high-impact research in AI, focusing on spurring industry-relevant R&D while having a global reach. Researchers, drawn from both local and international talent pools, will have the opportunity to work with AvePoint’s global teams on use cases from different countries, ensuring an international exchange of knowledge and insights.

    The lab will hire over 25 AI researchers and program specialists in the next three years to support these initiatives, driving AI innovation not only in Singapore but also across the globe. It will enable local PhD-qualified researchers to work with top foreign researchers via a global rotational program to AvePoint’s HQ. Additionally, the lab will provide collaboration with a network of universities, and with AvePoint’s global product teams.

    “We are excited to launch the AvePoint AI Lab, which will be instrumental in advancing AI-driven research and addressing industry needs,” said Wei Chen, Head of R&D, AvePoint. “With this lab, we aim to develop impactful solutions that benefit industries globally while enhancing our SaaS products.”

    Global Focus on AI Innovation

    With its international exchange element, the AvePoint AI Lab will develop AI-driven solutions for key sectors including:

    • Education: AI technologies will be harnessed to transform learning and assessments, offering personalized, AI-driven academic advisors tailored to students’ levels of study.
    • FinTech: AI will streamline banking processes through advanced data aggregation and fraud detection, as well as automating Know Your Customer (KYC) services for improved financial product recommendations.

    The AI Lab will also develop solutions that cut across various sectors, such as enhancing collaboration and knowledge management through AI, and creating innovative recommendation systems for career development and lifelong learning, applicable to a global audience.

    Philbert Gomez, Executive Director & Head, Digital Industry Singapore (DISG) said, “EDB is committed to fostering AI innovation that addresses real-world industry challenges. We are pleased to support AvePoint’s AI Lab in Singapore, which will not only advance cutting-edge AI research but also translate these innovations into practical solutions for global markets. This initiative aligns with our goal of positioning Singapore as a hub for AI talent and innovation, creating high-value job opportunities and driving the development of AI applications that can enhance productivity and competitiveness across various sectors worldwide.”

    Commercialization and Global Business Impact

    The AI Lab’s primary goal is to commercialize its research into AvePoint’s SaaS products, creating new business opportunities while enhancing existing product offerings to address evolving global market needs.

    “As we explore new areas of AI applications, our focus remains on translating these breakthroughs into practical applications for our customers worldwide,” added Wei Chen. “This lab enables us to collaborate on a global scale, ensuring that the innovations we develop here in Singapore can impact industries around the world.”

    About AvePoint

    Securing the Future. AvePoint is the global leader in data management and data governance, and over 21,000 customers worldwide rely on our solutions to secure the digital workplace across Microsoft, Google, Salesforce and other cloud environments. AvePoint’s global partner program includes over 3,500 managed service providers, value-added resellers, and systems integrators, with our solutions available in more than 100 cloud marketplaces.

    Disclosure Information

    AvePoint uses the https://ir.avepoint.com/ website as a means of disclosing material non-public information and for complying with its disclosure obligations under Regulation FD.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and other federal securities laws including statements regarding the future performance of and market opportunities for AvePoint. These forward-looking statements generally are identified by the words “believe,” “project,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “intend,” “strategy,” “future,” “opportunity,” “plan,” “may,” “should,” “will,” “would,” “will be,” “will continue,” “will likely result,” and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are predictions, projections and other statements about future events that are based on current expectations and assumptions and, as a result, are subject to risks and uncertainties. Many factors could cause actual future events to differ materially from the forward-looking statements in this press release, including but not limited to: changes in the competitive and regulated industries in which AvePoint operates, variations in operating performance across competitors, changes in laws and regulations affecting AvePoint’s business and changes in AvePoint’s ability to implement business plans, forecasts, and ability to identify and realize additional opportunities, and the risk of downturns in the market and the technology industry. You should carefully consider the foregoing factors and the other risks and uncertainties described in the “Risk Factors” section of AvePoint’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and its registration statement on Form S-3 and related prospectus and prospectus supplements filed with the SEC. Copies of these and other documents filed by AvePoint from time to time are available on the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov. These filings identify and address other important risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events and results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements, and AvePoint does not assume any obligation and does not intend to update or revise these forward-looking statements after the date of this release, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by law. AvePoint does not give any assurance that it will achieve its expectations.

    Investor Contact
    AvePoint
    Jamie Arestia
    ir@avepoint.com
    (551) 220-5654

    Media Contact
    AvePoint
    Nicole Caci
    pr@avepoint.com
    (201) 201-8143

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI China: Notable strides made in higher education

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    A student and family members pose for a photo at a national college entrance examination site in Shijiazhuang, north China’s Hebei Province, June 9, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    In recent years, China has made remarkable strides in the development of its higher education system, particularly through the initiative of building world-class universities and disciplines with Chinese characteristics, Education Minister Huai Jinpeng said.
    The “Double First Class” initiative, which was launched to develop a set of world-class institutions and disciplines in China, has undergone two rounds of changes, Huai said when delivering a report which was submitted to an ongoing session of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, China’s top legislature, for review on Tuesday.
    The first round identified 140 universities and 465 disciplines to be part of the initiative and the second round has added seven universities and 41 disciplines, with an emphasis on foundational and cutting-edge fields that are critical to the country’s development, according to the report.
    China has implemented programs for basic disciplines, establishing 288 elite student training bases, 14 national centers for talent development in mathematics and physics and 16 interdisciplinary research centers, aiming to contribute to significant advances in disciplines such as quantum science, materials engineering and space exploration, it said.
    Universities are evaluated based on their overall development and growth potential. Some top-tier institutions like Peking University and Tsinghua University are allowed to autonomously determine their own disciplines, creating a model for personalized growth, Huai said.
    Since 2016, China has invested over 166.7 billion yuan ($23.4 billion) in “Double First Class” universities to support the development of these institutions and their high-level research programs, the report said.
    Universities involved in the initiative have trained more than half of China’s master’s degree students and 80 percent of its doctoral students.
    Focusing on national strategic needs, 84 new undergraduate majors have been added, including interdisciplinary engineering, intelligent sensing engineering and carbon storage science, it added.
    However, the traditional academic structure in Chinese universities, which was based on departments and disciplines, limits the flexibility required to foster innovative, interdisciplinary talent, Huai said.
    “The model for talent development needs to evolve, with greater emphasis on integrating STEM or science, technology, engineering and mathematics, with the humanities, and on strengthening collaboration between education and industry,” he said.
    Moreover, China still faces challenges in producing leading-edge and disruptive innovations, particularly in fundamental research. The potential for universities to contribute more effectively to economic and social development has not been fully realized, and the commercialization of scientific discoveries remains insufficient, the report said.
    “There is still a gap when compared to top universities in developed countries,” Huai said. The ability to attract and retain global talent is a key challenge, as is China’s participation in global educational governance, especially in cutting-edge fields like artificial intelligence, he said.
    There is an urgent need to refine the criteria for evaluating disciplines, particularly for interdisciplinary studies and social sciences. The lack of a clear, characteristic development model for “Double First Class” universities further complicates the process of building distinct, world-class institutions, according to the report.
    In response to these challenges, a more tailored evaluation system should be developed, focusing on contributions to society, especially in areas such as ideological leadership, national security and social stability, Huai said.
    To cultivate top talent, China should strengthen early identification of potential innovators and foster a more integrated talent development model that combines research with education, according to the report.
    Special emphasis should be placed on developing engineers, professionals in emerging fields, and interdisciplinary researchers. Improving core curriculum and integrating research breakthroughs into teaching will help nurture a new generation of world-class talent, it added.
    The ability to attract top international talent will be crucial to building globally competitive institutions, according to the report.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI China: China import expo attractive to global exhibitors

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Chinese Premier Li Qiang pledged to open the country’s huge market further to share more growth opportunities with the rest of the world on Tuesday as the seventh edition of the China International Import Expo (CIIE) opened in Shanghai.

    Chinese Premier Li Qiang delivers a keynote speech at the opening ceremony of the seventh China International Import Expo and the Hongqiao International Economic Forum in east China’s Shanghai, Nov. 5, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The business exhibition of the world’s first national-level exposition dedicated to imports has attracted about 3,500 exhibitors from 129 countries and regions this year. Notably, a record high of 297 Fortune 500 companies and industry leaders are attending the six-day expo. And more than 400 new products, new technologies and new services are unveiled.

    Experts believe the large scale of the expo highlighted the global companies’ confidence in the Chinese market and their commitment to further development in China despite the sluggish global economic recovery.

    Enormous market

    China is willing to open up its enormous market further and will continue to expand market access to sectors including telecommunications, the internet, education, culture and healthcare in an orderly fashion, Premier Li said in a keynote speech at the opening ceremony of the 7th CIIE.

    The sound fundamentals of the Chinese economy remain unchanged, according to Li, adding that the country’s new growth drivers are fast-growing, with double-digit investment growth in high-tech industries and development booms in emerging industries including artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing and the green economy.

    During a meeting on Monday with select exhibitors and buyers attending the expo, Li said that China is able to sustain steady economic recovery, improve the quality and capacity of its market, and provide more extensive growth space for global businesses in terms of trade, investment and innovation. He added that the Chinese market is still one of the best choices for companies worldwide.

    The keen interest from global participants has shown the growing influence of the CIIE and the charm of the Chinese market and also highlighted China’s determination to push forward the building of an open world economy, said Zhao Fujun, a researcher with the Development Research Center of the State Council.

    In 2018, China inaugurated the CIIE to build an open platform for international trade cooperation and to support free trade and economic globalization, making it a “golden gateway” to the world’s second-largest consumer market.

    This photo taken on Nov. 5, 2024 shows the Tanzania Pavilion during the seventh China International Import Expo (CIIE) in east China’s Shanghai. [Photo/Xinhua]

    More than 420 billion U.S. dollars worth of tentative deals were signed at the CIIE’s earlier six editions since 2018. Beyond the event, global companies can reach a larger customer base and make further investments in the country.

    Toshinobu Umetsu, president and CEO of Shiseido China, said he is very inspired and encouraged by Premier Li’s emphasis on China’s commitment to continuing high-level opening-up and to sharing development opportunities with the rest of the world.

    The Japanese cosmetics giant will continue to strengthen its long-term investment in China. It has never wavered in its confidence and determination to invest in China, as the incredible vitality and resilience of the Chinese market make it a very important international market, Umetsu said.

    German healthcare and agribusiness giant Bayer AG is among more than 180 companies and institutions that have attended all seven editions of the CIIE since 2018.

    Bayer’s participation at the expo demonstrates its unwavering commitment to this important market, said Bill Anderson, chairman of Bayer AG Management Board.

    “International cooperation and economic globalization are important factors in the world’s development. That’s why Bayer is glad to be part of the expo for the seventh consecutive year,” said Anderson.

    New opportunities

    The CIIE unlocks new opportunities for the world, Bayer said, adding that it will actively leverage this vital platform to continuously unleash its innovative potential while looking forward to forging partnerships with global collaborators.

    A visitor learns about a bronchoscope robot at the exhibition area of Intuitive Fosun during the seventh China International Import Expo (CIIE) in east China’s Shanghai, Nov. 5, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Penne Kehl, Asia Pacific Group president of Cargill Agriculture and Trading, expects a very busy schedule at the import expo, including meeting with customers and partners and signing a few important deals and partnerships. U.S. food giant Cargill has participated in CIIE for seven consecutive years.

    As its influence grows, the expo is attracting new foreign enterprises over the years. Canadian sportswear giant Lululemon is among the first-time participants.

    The Chinese mainland is Lululemon’s largest market outside of North America and is also one of the most dynamic and exciting ones, which is key to driving the company’s international business, said Calvin McDonald, CEO of Lululemon.

    “It’s an exciting opportunity to showcase the brand, drive awareness to our growth story and what we have planned for the future,” said McDonald. He added that Lululemon will continue to open more stores in the country, adding to its current 137 stores in 41 cities.

    China offers free booths and other support measures to 37 least-developed countries to help them showcase their products at the import expo. It also expanded the exhibition area for African agricultural products.

    China has been opening up its market to Africa, enabling transformation on the African continent, said Peter Kagwanja, founder and president of the Africa Policy Institute.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s top legislator holds talks with Hungarian official

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Zhao Leji, chairman of the National People’s Congress Standing Committee, holds talks with Laszlo Kover, Speaker of the Hungarian National Assembly, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Nov. 5, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    China’s top legislator Zhao Leji held talks with Laszlo Kover, speaker of the Hungarian National Assembly, in Beijing on Tuesday.

    Zhao, chairman of the National People’s Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, said this year marks the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Hungary, and in May, the two sides elevated bilateral relations to an all-weather comprehensive strategic partnership for the new era.

    China is willing to work with Hungary to implement the important consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries, consolidate the momentum of high-level exchanges, enhance strategic communication and cooperation, and embark on a new chapter of practical cooperation, jointly creating a bright future, Zhao added.

    Zhao also expressed China’s willingness to strengthen policy communication with Hungary in various fields, deepen high-level political mutual trust, firmly support each other’s core interests, and consolidate the political foundation of China-Hungary friendship.

    The Chinese side is willing to promote a deep synergy of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) with Hungary’s “Opening to the East” policy, accelerate the construction of the Hungary-Serbia railway, and expand cooperation in emerging areas such as clean energy, digital economy, and artificial intelligence, to comprehensively elevate the level of cooperation, said Zhao.

    Noting that China’s NPC and the Hungarian National Assembly have maintained a long-standing and good relationship, Zhao said the two sides should further strengthen exchanges and interactions at different levels, to enhance mutual understanding, trust, and friendship. He also called on the legislative institutions of the two sides to strengthen coordination and cooperation in multilateral forums, promoting global governance that is more conducive to maintaining world peace and international fairness and justice.

    Kover said Hungary firmly adheres to the one-China principle and is willing to seize the opportunity of the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations to strengthen cooperation with China in various fields, including jointly building the BRI, promoting economic and trade investment, Hungary-Serbia railway construction, and people-to-people exchanges, to contribute to the cooperation between Central and Eastern European countries and China, as well as the development of EU-China relations.

    The Hungarian National Assembly is committed to enhancing friendly exchanges with China’s NPC, to make active contributions to the development of bilateral relations, Kover added.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI Economics: [User Guide] Balancing Work and Leisure With Galaxy Book5 Pro 360

    Source: Samsung

    A new era of AI-powered PCs has arrived, blending the efficiency of a laptop with the versatility of a tablet. In September,1 Samsung Electronics introduced the Galaxy Book5 Pro 360 — featuring a 360-degree rotating display that adapts to any task.
     
    What does life look like with an AI PC powered by the advanced Intel® Core Ultra processors (Series 2)? Samsung Newsroom spent a day using the Galaxy Book5 Pro 360 to find out.
     
     
    Getting Ready for Work: A Lightweight Tablet and a Large Display

    ▲ Galaxy Book5 Pro 360
     
    The morning begins with browsing the news — and the Galaxy Book5 Pro 360 adds a new dimension to this daily habit. Rotating the screen 360 degrees and turning on tablet mode makes viewing content easy on this large display. The keyboard and touchpad automatically lock to prevent any accidental input.
     

    ▲ Vertical mode
     
    When lifting the 16-inch screen vertically, the display automatically rotates to match the orientation. The 120 Hz adaptive refresh rate offers an effortless scrolling experience — almost like flipping through a digital newspaper.
     
    ▲ The Galaxy Book5 Pro 360 is built for portability.
     
    The Galaxy Book5 Pro 360’s slim 12.8 mm thickness and lightweight 1.69 kg design makes the device easy to carry to work. Supporting up to 25 hours of video playback,2 the laptop can be used uninterrupted even if users left their charger at home.

     

    Business Hours: Maximum Efficiency With AI
    ▲ Laptop mode
     
    Upon arriving at the office, the Galaxy Book5 Pro 360 can be switched to laptop mode — in which the powerful AI performance of the Copilot+ PC3 and the Intel® Core Ultra processors (Series 2) truly shine.
     
    ▲ Microsoft Copilot key
     
    There’s no need to worry when the workload piles up. A quick press on the keyboard’s Copilot key instantly activates Microsoft’s AI service, Microsoft Copilot. This AI assistant serves as an invaluable work partner, handling everything from searching and summarizing information to generating images.
     
    With Microsoft’s Phone Link,4 Galaxy AI features supported on Galaxy smartphones can be accessed on the large PC screen. Furthermore, Samsung Knox provides robust protection for sensitive information.

     
     
    Lunch Break: A Burst of Inspiration
    ▲ The S Pen is included with the Galaxy Book5 Pro 360.
     
    Lunchtime is the perfect moment to switch back to tablet mode and jot down some ideas or sketches in the office break room. The Galaxy Book5 Pro 360 instantly transitions from a work partner to a digital canvas, offering an enjoyable sketching and writing experience with the remarkably precise S Pen.
     
    ▲ Dynamic AMOLED 2X display
     
    After sketching, it’s time to relax by watching a video. Even when seated by a sunny window, the 3K high-resolution display with Vision Booster adjusts brightness for sharp and vivid clarity. The anti-reflective cover glass further enhances the experience by ensuring distraction-free viewing from any angle.
     
     
    Effective Collaboration With Adjustable Screen Rotation
    ▲ The Galaxy Book5 Pro 360 opens to 180 degrees for easy screen sharing during meetings.
     
    In the meeting room, teamwork is enhanced with the Galaxy Book5 Pro 360. The 360-degree rotating screen allows for flexible adjustments to 180 degrees, 210 degrees and more — so sharing materials and engaging with colleagues is a breeze.
     
    ▲ Quick Share
     
    After the meeting, sending meeting minutes from a smartphone to the Galaxy Book5 Pro 360 is fast and easy. The Quick Share feature significantly saves time when transferring large files, photos and even videos without the need for additional software.
     
     
    Dinner Time: A Moment To Reflect and Relax

    ▲ Multi Control
     
    After work, the Galaxy Book5 Pro 360 can be transitioned back to tablet mode when journaling at the end of the day. The laptop’s keyboard and mouse can be used on a smartphone with Multi Control for effortless switching between devices. Photos from the smartphone’s gallery can be dragged and dropped onto the PC screen and inserted into the journal using the touchpad — much like adding stickers to a digital diary filled with memories.
     

     
    ▲ The Galaxy Book5 Pro 360 delivers a cinematic viewing experience.
     
    At the end of the day, unwinding means curling up in bed to finally watch that long-awaited movie. The bedroom transforms into a personal theater with the Galaxy Book5 Pro 360’s sharp 3K resolution display, Quad speakers featuring Dolby Atmos® technology and larger woofer5 for deeper, richer sound.
     
    The Galaxy Book5 Pro 360 is more than just a work tool. The device serves as a professional AI partner in the office, a personalized entertainment hub at home and a creative digital canvas for the moments in the middle. This powerful AI-powered PC sets new standards for personal computing, adapting to different lifestyles and blurring the boundary between work and leisure.
     
     
    1 Availability may vary by region.2 Actual battery life may vary depending on model, network environment, usage patterns and other factors.3 Future updates will support Microsoft Copilot+ PC AI capabilities.4 Requires a Galaxy device from the Galaxy S22 Series, Flip4 or Fold4 (running One UI 6.1 or later) to connect with a Windows PC through Microsoft Phone Link. Follow the setup prompts, ensuring both devices are signed into the same Microsoft account. Microsoft Phone Link is preloaded on select Samsung Galaxy devices. The PC (Microsoft Phone Link app) requires Windows 10 or later. For optimal performance, it’s recommended that both the Samsung Galaxy device and the PC are on the same Wi-Fi network. Some mobile apps may limit content sharing on other screens. Feature availability may vary by model.5 Galaxy Book5 Pro 360 features a 38 mm woofer, while the Galaxy Book4 Pro 360 features an 18 mm woofer.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by SJ at Hong Kong Legal Week 2024: Beyond Litigation: The Vibrant Landscape of Alternative Dispute Resolution of Hong Kong (English only)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Speech by SJ at Hong Kong Legal Week 2024: Beyond Litigation: The Vibrant Landscape of Alternative Dispute Resolution of Hong Kong (English only)
    Speech by SJ at Hong Kong Legal Week 2024: Beyond Litigation: The Vibrant Landscape of Alternative Dispute Resolution of Hong Kong (English only)
    ******************************************************************************************

         Following are the opening remarks by the Secretary for Justice, Mr Paul Lam, SC, at Hong Kong Legal Week 2024: Beyond Litigation: The Vibrant Landscape of Alternative Dispute Resolution of Hong Kong today (November 6): Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,      It is a great pleasure to see you all again on day three of Hong Kong Legal Week 2024. After two days of fruitful discussions on issues relating to international law, today we will put our focus back on Hong Kong, in particular, our alternative dispute resolution (ADR) services. Today’s theme is “Beyond Litigation: The Vibrant Landscape of Alternative Dispute Resolution of Hong Kong”.           Hong Kong takes pride in our world-class ADR services and legal talents. It is immensely encouraging that in the latest World Competitiveness Yearbook 2024, Hong Kong ranks fifth globally as the most competitive economy, and, most importantly, ranks first in the sub-topics of “Business Legislation” and “International Trade”. In the recent “Business Ready 2024 Report” published by the World Bank Group, Hong Kong ranks eighth in the topic of “Dispute Resolution” among the 50 economies covered.           In recent years, the Government has formulated a comprehensive set of policy initiatives, which aim at deepening the mediation culture in Hong Kong. At present, mediation clauses are not mandatory in government contracts but various forms of such clauses can be found in some of them. Resolving disputes through mediation can save public funds, achieve early resolution of disputes and lessen the burden on our courts. There have been a multitude of successful instances of mediation involving the Government, from personal injuries cases, construction works disputes, adverse possession claims to medical negligence cases. Against such a background, it was first mentioned in the Chief Executive’s 2023 Policy Address and repeated in “The Chief Executive’s 2024 Policy Address” that the Government will take the lead, and incorporate mediation clauses in government contracts, while encouraging private organisations to incorporate similar clauses in their contracts. The key effect of including such clauses is that, if any dispute arises, the parties are obliged to try to resolve it by mediation first, and will resort to arbitration or litigation if, but only if, mediation fails.           Taking the opportunity of today’s event with a strong emphasis on mediation, I am very pleased to announce that today, the Government will formally issue a policy statement on the incorporation of mediation clauses in all government contracts. The policy statement is a confirmation of the Government’s commitment to use mediation to resolve contractual disputes. Upon the taking effect of the policy, the Government will incorporate mediation clauses in all future government contracts; and departure from that policy will need to be justified by exceptional circumstances, for example, the existence of an inconsistent statutory provision. Supporting and monitoring mechanisms to be provided by the Department of Justice to other policy bureaux and departments will be put in place to ensure the smooth implementation of this policy. Through this policy, we do not only aim at ensuring that contractual disputes involving the Government may be resolved in a flexible, economical and time-saving manner. We also hope that, with the Government taking the lead, the policy will also encourage the private sectors to follow suit, contributing to the cultivation of a mediation culture in Hong Kong and bringing more harmony and peace to society.            With this policy initiative in mind, I would like to introduce our three panels and distinguished speakers for today’s event. The first panel discussion this morning, entitled “Mediation in Action: Harmony and Peace for All”, will cover how mediation can be used effectively in various sectors of the community, for instance, in areas of family disputes, civil claims, improving relations between citizens and government departments, and not simply for resolving the disputes but, more importantly, to foster a culture that embraces mutual respect, harmony and inclusiveness.           The Government has always been a staunch supporter of mediation for the community. Since 2009, we have launched the Mediate First Pledge campaign to encourage the use of mediation as the first step to resolve disputes. The Mediate First Pledge is a non-legally binding commitment by pledgees to first explore the use of mediation to resolve disputes before resorting to other means of dispute resolution. At present, over 900 companies, organisations and individuals coming from different sectors have signed the pledge. The biennial Mediation Week and Mediation Conference, coupled with the Mediate First Pledge Event, are our flagship events to explore and promote wider use of mediation to resolve disputes in Hong Kong. The last one was just held a few months ago in May this year.           A very significant event about mediation with global significance took place in Hong Kong on October 17, less than a month ago. On that day, the four-day Fifth Session of the Elaboration of the Convention on the Establishment of The International Organization for Mediation (IOMed) was concluded. Representatives from various countries completed negotiations on the Convention at that session and decided that the signing ceremony for the Convention will be held in Hong Kong in 2025. The IOMed is the first intergovernmental international legal body dedicated to settling international disputes by mediation. With the support of our motherland China and the agreement of other state parties, it was agreed that the headquarters of the International Organization for Mediation will be established in Hong Kong in 2025. This represents a strong vote of confidence in Hong Kong and a clear acknowledgement from the international community of Hong Kong’s status as an international dispute resolution centre. I am delighted that Dr Sun Jin, Director-General of the International Organization for Mediation Preparatory Office, will deliver a keynote speech before lunch today.           Later this afternoon, we will discuss ADR in the context of artificial intelligence (AI). While there is no doubt that the use of AI may enhance the efficiency in resolving disputes, it is vital to ensure that the integrity of the dispute resolution process will not be compromised by the misuse of AI, whether intentionally, negligently or even inadvertently. Our distinguished speakers will consider the opportunities and risks associated with the use of artificial intelligence in ADR. They will also discuss the adoption of lawtech by Hong Kong practitioners, the benefits of lawtech in improving legal services and enhancing access to justice.           Our last panel of today’s event is on sports disputes. As stated in “The Chief Executive’s 2024 Policy Address”, with our thriving development of sports activities and the industry, sports disputes have become increasing complicated. Hence, Hong Kong will explore establishing a sports dispute resolution system and promoting sports arbitration. In this session, our speakers will share their experiences and insights regarding the demand, application, effectiveness and challenges of sports ADR.           To round up today’s events, we will have the 2024 Hong Kong Mediation Lecture at the office of Herbert Smith Freehills this evening. Professor Shahla Ali, through her perspective as a mediator with the World Bank and the Energy Community Panel, would explore the unique challenges and opportunities involved in the use of mediation in deals relating to natural resources, particularly in the Belt and Road Initiative, and how mediation can contribute to ensure that energy and natural resources agreements are environmentally sustainable and foster collaborative approaches.           While today’s programmes are focused on mediation, we must not forget that Hong Kong has always been promoting and expanding our arbitration services proactively not just in Hong Kong but also the Mainland and other countries. Two examples would suffice. First, the Hong Kong Arbitration Week was just been held between October 21 and 25. Second, the Hong Kong International Arbitration Centre has recently announced its imminent opening of a Beijing office, being its second office in the Mainland since the opening of its Shanghai office back in 2015.           As I mentioned on different occasions previously, Hong Kong is an international legal dispute resolution centre in which numerous options, all of top quality, are made available to the parties to disputes. On this note, let me conclude by wishing you very fruitful exchanges and discussions in today’s sessions to come. Thank you very much.

     
    Ends/Wednesday, November 6, 2024Issued at HKT 11:15

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI China: Global companies debut cutting-edge technologies

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    This photo taken on Nov. 4, 2024 shows the automobile exhibition area of the 7th China International Import Expo (CIIE) at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai) in Shanghai, east China. [Photo/Xinhua]

    With the seventh China International Import Expo (CIIE) in full swing in Shanghai, global companies are unveiling their latest technological innovations, capitalizing on the opportunities arising from China’s commitment to further opening up both its market and manufacturing industry.

    GE Healthcare, a regular exhibitor at the CIIE, has brought an unprecedented lineup to Shanghai this year. The U.S. medical technology company is showcasing multiple products either making their global or Chinese debut.

    Eyeing China’s growing demand for advanced medical technology, GE Healthcare is exhibiting its largest collection of new products ever at this year’s expo, where it has been participating since 2018, said Zhong Luyin, the company’s China communications executive.

    “Our goal extends beyond mere participation in the expo. More importantly, we look forward to engaging in China,” Zhong said.

    A stage for all

    At the ongoing CIIE, over 400 new products, technologies and services from around the world are being showcased, spanning sectors such as artificial intelligence, new materials, autonomous systems and energy transition technologies.

    During a meeting on Monday with select exhibitors and buyers attending the expo, Chinese Premier Li Qiang said that China is able to sustain steady economic recovery, improve the quality and capacity of its market, and provide more extensive growth space for global businesses in terms of trade, investment and innovation. He added that the Chinese market is still one of the best choices for companies worldwide.

    Just days ago, China removed all market access restrictions for foreign investors in the manufacturing sector, with the country’s new edition of its national negative list for foreign investment having taken effect on Nov. 1. This significant move marked the latest effort of the world’s second-largest economy to open its doors even wider.

    “Benefiting from the ‘spillover effect’ of the expo, many of our showcased products are now in use across Chinese hospitals,” said Lu Yi, MRI marketing manager of Siemens Healthineers. At this year’s CIIE, the German medical technology company is unveiling the MAGNETOM Terra.X, its latest generation of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) equipment — the first time this new equipment is being displayed in Asia.

    Lu revealed that Siemens Healthineers is advancing its localization strategy for cutting-edge product manufacturing. Notably, the MAGNETOM Terra.X is slated for future production at the company’s base in Shenzhen, south China’s Guangdong Province.

    Apart from traditional technological sectors, the ongoing expo showcases an array of futuristic exhibits that seem straight out of the world of science fiction, including tires designed for lunar exploration vehicles, electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, and innovative motor-powered shoes.

    French tire maker Michelin, which is attending the expo for a fourth year, is exhibiting a futuristic prototype wheel for lunar exploration vehicles, among other products including car tires containing 71 percent sustainable materials and a new generation aircraft tire.

    Serge Godefroid, research and development director of Michelin China, said Michelin has been innovating for the future of mobility and is even thinking about mobility beyond the Earth for future lunar or Mars exploration projects.

    Michelin is already extensively testing tires in very rough conditions and with exposure to the range of temperatures that exist on the moon, Godefroid said. “You don’t have somebody to help you inflate a tire on the moon, so you need to find a wheel that can sustain very difficult conditions.”

    Rising innovation landscape

    A number of eVTOL aircraft are proving eye-catching at this year’s CIIE. Vertaxi, an eVTOL startup which is attending the expo jointly with Ampaire, a global leader in hybrid electric aircraft systems, has brought three autonomous eVTOL drones to the 2024 expo.

    Yue Tingting, vice president of Vertaxi, said the company’s smaller eVTOL aircraft have been well received by the market and are being widely used for police, emergency and fire-fighting patrols, public and oil infrastructure inspections, and island logistics.

    Yue admitted that it will take longer for the company’s eVTOL aircraft to obtain the airworthiness certification needed for passenger transport. She, however, is very bullish about China’s low-altitude economy and even envisions a future where people will be able to board eVTOL aircraft for daily commuting, much like taking a taxi or bus.

    Shift Robotics, attending the expo for the first time, is exhibiting its new generation of motor-powered shoes, called Moonwalkers Aero, that allow people to walk at speeds of up to 11 km per hour.

    Moonwalkers deliver smooth power when people who wear them speed up, while they offer very little assistance if the person wearing them walks very slowly. These motor-powered shoes can be used in virtually any environment, even on the subway, in a lift or on stairs, and people can move around in these Moonwalkers without taking off their normal shoes, according to Zhang Xunjie, CEO of Shift Robotics.

    From industry giants to rising startups, the dedication shown to China by global tech companies is well-timed, as the country’s prominence in the global innovation landscape continues to increase. According to the Global Innovation Index 2024 released by the World Intellectual Property Organization, China has moved up one spot to 11th place in the latest rankings of the world’s most innovative economies — becoming one of the fastest risers over the past decade.

    “China’s growth pattern has shifted from quantity-oriented to quality-oriented,” said Tetsuro Homma, executive vice president of Panasonic Holdings Corporation. “To keep pace with this change, we are setting up more research and development teams in China to quickly adapt to the evolving Chinese market.”

    Over the past four years, this Japanese manufacturing company has steadily expanded its investment in China. Home to over 60 Panasonic subsidiaries, China now accounts for nearly a quarter of the company’s business worldwide. “We are innovating for China, and we aspire to innovate in China for the whole world,” Homma said.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI China: Singapore firms take long-term view towards Chinese market

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    Singapore firms take a long-term view towards China, a market with huge potential and growing sophistication, and regard investing in the country as a long game, according to the Singapore Business Federation (SBF) CEO.

    “The number that I have been told many times is that China is home to over 400 million middle-income population. Market growth might not always be in a rocketing state. However, the world’s second-largest consumer market will still grow,” SBF CEO Kok Ping Soon told Xinhua during the 7th China International Import Expo (CIIE).

    Led by the SBF, a delegation of nearly 400 representatives from 44 Singaporean businesses are attending the CIIE held from Nov. 5 to Nov. 10 this year, which marks the seventh year for the SBF’s delegation to participate in the world’s first national-level expo on import.

    “Some of the previous delegation participants have ‘graduated’ from the delegation by outgrowing the Singapore Pavilion and setting up their own booths at other exhibition areas of CIIE,” Kok said.

    With a total exhibition area of close to 912 square meters, the Singapore Pavilion spans the Consumer Goods Hall, Food & Agricultural Products Hall, and Trade in Services Hall.

    “We are very encouraged to see some of those companies are no longer just in the food and beverage sector. We are starting to see companies responding to China’s call for more high-quality investment in fields like biotech,” he noted.

    China has been Singapore’s largest trading partner for 11 consecutive years. Singapore is China’s second-largest foreign investment source and the top destination for Chinese overseas investment.

    Kok said there are broad areas of collaboration between the two countries, such as green transformation, AI security and governance, and smart city development.

    According to the SBF National Business Survey 2023/2024, China is one of the top three countries that Singapore businesses have a presence in and is among the top three countries in Asia that Singapore businesses are looking to expand into.

    China has intensified its opening up in the medical sector to meet the growing healthcare demands of the population. The country announced in September that it would give the green light to establishing wholly foreign-owned hospitals in some cities like Beijing and Shanghai.

    “The opening up of the healthcare sector in China presents tremendous opportunity for us,” Kok said, citing the case of Mirxes, a CIIE participant seeking local partnerships such as promoting its solution to screen early-stage stomach cancer, drawn by China’s huge market potential and enhanced intellectual property protection.

    RMA Contracts, a Singapore business process outsourcing company, will be using the CIIE platform to tap into the China-Singapore Tianjin Eco-City, a representative cooperation project between the two countries, according to Kok.

    Another interesting thing Kok observed is that Singapore companies are looking beyond penetrating the Chinese market via the CIIE, citing examples of participating companies seeking cooperation with non-Chinese firms.

    Kok said CIIE is an important platform for reaching the global market. “You don’t just come in thinking to connect with China. If you broaden your mind, you can look for partners in your home country or even outside of China, which is the charm of a platform like CIIE.”

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Co-Chairs’ Statement on Fifth U.S.-ASEAN Cyber Policy Dialogue

    Source: ASEAN – Association of SouthEast Asian Nations

    The Fifth U.S.-ASEAN Cyber Policy Dialogue was held in Singapore on October 17, 2024. The Dialogue was a demonstration of strong partnerships and a shared vision of an open, peaceful, interoperable, reliable, and secure cyberspace that supports international trade and commerce, strengthens international security, and fosters economic prosperity, free expression, and innovation. The United States and Cambodia co-chaired the dialogue.
    Reaffirming the U.S.-ASEAN. Leaders’ Statement on Promoting Safe, Secure, and Trustworthy Artificial Intelligence adopted at the 12th U.S.-ASEAN Summit in October 2024, participants discussed how states can enhance the positive, collaborative nature of the U.S.-ASEAN Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and advance a shared, affirmative vision for cyberspace, digital technologies, and the digital economy.
    Download the full statement here.

    The post Co-Chairs’ Statement on Fifth U.S.-ASEAN Cyber Policy Dialogue appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI: Orezone Reports Third Quarter 2024 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    All dollar amounts are in USD unless otherwise stated and abbreviation “M” means million.

    VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Nov. 05, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —  Orezone Gold Corporation (TSX: ORE, OTCQX: ORZCF) (“Orezone” or “Company”) reported its operational and financial results for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024. The Company will host a conference call and webcast on November 6, 2024 commencing at 8:00am PT to discuss its quarterly and year-to-date performance, and outlook for the remainder of the year, including commentary on the progress of its Phase II hard rock expansion and early success on its multi-year, discovery-focus drilling campaign. Call access and webcast details are provided at the end of this press release.

    Patrick Downey, President and CEO, commented, “The third quarter provided a number of positive developments for our Bomboré Mine. Operationally, mining access was opened up in the Siga pits and grid power returned to normalized levels, both of which will ensure ongoing improved gold production and costs in Q4-2024. We generated solid free cash flow during the quarter and continued to pay down debt and advance the Phase II hard rock expansion which will set the path for Bomboré to increase annual gold production by 50% within the next 12 months. We also commenced our multi-year exploration program with the first two diamond drill holes from the current campaign returning robust results, with broad and above-average grade mineralization to 240 metres below the current pit limit, validating our belief that with further targeted drilling, Bomboré can grow into a 7 to 10 million ounce orebody.

    With unhedged gold sales at record prices continuing into the fourth quarter, we forecast generation of continued strong operating cashflow that will help support the Phase II expansion construction. The $58M Phase II term loan previously announced with Coris Bank is advancing and is expected to close in the coming weeks.”

    2024 THIRD QUARTER HIGHLIGHTS AND SIGNIFICANT SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

    (All mine site figures on a 100% basis)   Q3-2024 Q3-2023 9M-2024 9M-2023
    Operating Performance          
    Gold production oz 26,581 30,726   82,244   107,509
    Gold sales oz 27,698 29,167   83,864   105,914
    Average realized gold price $/oz 2,473 1,910   2,280   1,922
    Cash costs per gold ounce sold1 $/oz 1,410 1,152   1,297   936
    All-in sustaining costs1 (“AISC”) per gold ounce sold $/oz 1,655 1,306   1,519   1,088
    Financial Performance          
    Revenue $000s 68,652 55,803   191,680   203,911
    Earnings from mine operations $000s 22,340 13,882   72,389   81,042
    Net income attributable to shareholders of Orezone1 $000s 4,984 5,194   25,620   39,134
    Net income per common share attributable to shareholders of Orezone1
    Basic
    Diluted

    $
    $

    0.01
    0.01

    0.01
    0.01

     

    0.07
    0.06

     

    0.11
    0.11

    Adjusted EBITDA1 $000s 25,756 19,163   72,175   93,334
    Adjusted earnings attributable to shareholders of Orezone1 $000s 7,365 3,588   18,427   39,398
    Adjusted earnings per share attributable to shareholders of Orezone1 $ 0.02 0.01   0.05   0.11
    Cash and Cash Flow Data          
    Operating cash flow before changes in working capital $000s 18,888 16,474   53,876   82,839
    Operating cash flow $000s 24,043 6,978   29,677   66,059
    Free cash flow1 $000s 14,120 (4,024 ) (818 ) 35,490
    Cash, end of period $000s 66,900 27,711   66,900   27,711

    1 Cash costs, AISC, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted earnings, Adjusted earnings per share, and Free cash flow are non-IFRS measures. See “Non-IFRS Measures” section below for additional information.

    • Safety: Continued strong safety performance with 1.31M and 3.68M hours worked without a lost-time injury for Q3-2024 and 9M-2024, respectively.
    • Liquidity: Free cashflow generation of $14.1M in Q3-2024 despite the continued build-up of VAT receivables and Phase II Expansion capital expenditures in the quarter. Cash stood at $66.9M at September 30, 2024, increases of $55.5M from June 30, 2024 and $47.4M from December 31, 2023, respectively.    
    • Gold Production and Costs:   Gold production of 26,581 ounces at an AISC of $1,655/oz as a result of an above-average strip ratio due to mine sequencing, and drawdown of lower-grade stockpiles due to heavy rainfall events restricting pit access during the quarter combined with higher-than-budgeted government royalties from a better realized gold price.
    • Siga Pits Mining Extension: Mining at Siga East ramped up in Q3-2024 after the relocation of households to the new MV3 resettlement site in June 2024 while mining at Siga South commenced in August 2024. The Q4-2024 mine plan calls for greater mill delivery of higher-grade ore tonnes from the Siga pits as mining productivity and material movement are forecasted to improve with the end of the rainy season and the recent expansion of the contractor mining fleet. Two new heavy-duty excavators and twenty new haul trucks were mobilized to site at the end of October and were placed into service at the start of November. As a result, quarterly gold production is expected to be the highest in Q4-2024 as demonstrated by the production of 12,096 gold ounces in October.
    • Phase II Hard Rock Expansion (“Phase II Expansion”) Approval: The Company announced on July 10, 2024 that its Board of Directors had approved the Phase II Expansion after securing over $105M in new debt and equity for the construction. On August 8, 2024, the Company completed the issuance of 92,743,855 common shares at a share price of C$0.70 for net proceeds of C$64.8M ($47.3M). Concurrently, the Company is working on closing its XOF 35.0 billion ($58M) senior secured loan (“Phase II Term Loan”) with Coris Bank International (“Coris Bank”) in November 2024. The draft loan agreement with Coris Bank is in final form and the Company is now arranging for intercreditor consents from the convertible debenture holders for this additional senior debt.      
    • Phase II Expansion Early Achievements: Expansion activities are advancing ahead of schedule while committed costs are tracking on budget. The Company has placed over 50% of all packages, including CIL tank platework and 95% of all process equipment, including the purchase of a new, pre-owned 9MW 26’ diameter SAG mill. For site activities, all bulk earthwork is complete, and the laydown area is ready to receive deliveries. Rapid progress on major site contracts such as concrete will see these contracts awarded early, thereby adding further float to the schedule for first gold. For the 9M-2024, the Company has expended $9.8M on both early works and the on-going Phase II Expansion, and expects to expend a further $9M – $12M in Q4-2024 as the Company rapidly advances the expansion towards first gold in Q4-2025.
    • Multi-year Exploration Campaign Commencement: The Company initiated a 30,000 m, multi-year discovery focused drill program designed to test the broader size and scale of the Bomboré mineralized system with the goal of increasing the Bomboré global resource to 7M to 10M gold ounces. Results from the first two drill holes at the North Zone intercepted mineralization 240 m below the current reserve pit limit, including 1.67 g/t gold over 46.00 m, demonstrating the continuity of the mineralized system at depth, both in terms of grade and overall width (see the Company’s October 10, 2024 news release). Additional drill results from the next round of drilling are set for release before the end of 2024.
    • Better Grid Power Availability: Availability of grid power normalized in Q3-2024 with the national grid supplying 92% of Bomboré mine’s power needs, up significantly from Q2-2024 when grid power provided only 34% of power consumption.  
    • Debt Reduction: Scheduled principal repayments of XOF 3.0 billion ($5.0M) were made in Q3-2024 on the Company’s Phase I senior loan with Coris Bank.

    2024 Guidance for Bomboré Mine

    Operating Guidance (100% basis) Unit Original
    2024 Guidance
    Revised
    2024 Guidance
    9M-2024
    Actuals
    Gold production Au oz 110,000 – 125,000 Unchanged   82,244
    All-In Sustaining Costs123 $/oz Au sold $1,300 – $1,375 $1,400 – $1,475 $1,519
    Sustaining capital2 $M $14 – $15 Unchanged $11.7
    Growth capital – non Phase II Expansion2 $M $16 – $17 Unchanged $13.2
    Growth capital – Phase II Expansion early works2 $M No guidance provided $3.6 $3.6
    Growth capital – Phase II Expansion2 $M No guidance provided $15.0 – $18.0 $6.2
    1. AISC is a non-IFRS measure. See “Non-IFRS Measures” section below for additional information.
    2. Foreign exchange rates used to forecast cost metrics include XOF/USD of 600 and CAD/USD of 1.30.
    3. Government royalties of $160/oz included in original AISC guidance based on an assumed gold price of $2,000 per oz. Government royalties of $200/oz is now estimated in the revised AISC guidance from a better gold price realized.

    2024 gold production is expected to be at or above the mid-point of guidance with AISC now guided to fall within $1,400/oz to $1,475/oz, a minor increase to the original guidance, mainly due to the impact of higher power costs from the lack of grid availability in H1-2024 (~$60/oz) and from higher government royalties (~$40/oz) on better realized gold prices.

    Sustaining capital for 2024 is expected to reach the low-end of the $14M – $15M guidance range as spending in Q4-2024 will be limited mainly to the ongoing tailings storage facility (“TSF”) expansion (stage 4 lift) and completion of the new on-site explosives magazine.

    Growth capital consists of two carryover projects from 2023:

          (i)      Power connection to Burkina Faso’s national grid (9M-2024 actuals: $1.4M)

    The powerline was energized in January 2024, and system commissioning of the new line and substations were completed in March 2024. Remaining equipment and software upgrades to shorten the transfer between the grid and back-up gensets, and to reduce the quantity of reactive power are expected to be implemented by year-end.

          (ii)      Resettlement Action Plan (“RAP”) – Phases II and III (9M-2024 actuals: $11.8M)

    RAP Phases II and III commenced in 2023 and will see the construction of over 2,200 private and public structures in three new resettlement communities (MV3, MV2, and BV2) to help relocate communities occupying areas in the southern half of the Bomboré mining permit.

    The Company successfully relocated families to the new MV3 resettlement site in June 2024 and is currently constructing the new MV2 resettlement site with construction progress reaching 85% at the end of Q3-2024. Relocation of households to MV2 and the start of construction works at BV2 are scheduled for in Q4-2024.

    RAP spending, including costs for compensation, consultants, relocation allowances, and livelihood restoration programs, is forecasted to remain unchanged at between $15M to $16M for 2024.

    BOMBORÉ GOLD MINE (100% BASIS) – OPERATING HIGHLIGHTS

        Q3-2024 Q3-2023 9M-2024 9M-2023
    Safety          
    Lost-time injuries frequency rate per 1M hrs 0.00 0.00   0.00 0.00  
    Personnel-hours worked 000s hours 1,308 1,128   3,680 3,093  
    Mining Physicals          
    Ore tonnes mined tonnes 1,457,631 2,231,360   5,826,711 6,364,169  
    Waste tonnes mined tonnes 2,690,759 2,654,010   9,265,615 8,188,409  
    Total tonnes mined tonnes 4,148,390 4,885,370   15,092,326 14,552,578  
    Strip ratio waste:ore 1.85 1.19   1.59 1.29  
    Processing Physicals          
    Ore tonnes milled tonnes 1,491,740 1,453,541   4,275,755 4,299,394  
    Head grade milled Au g/t 0.64 0.74   0.68 0.86  
    Recovery rate % 87.4 88.8   87.8 90.9  
    Gold produced Au oz 26,581 30,726   82,244 107,509  
    Unit Cash Cost          
    Mining cost per tonne $/tonne 3.76 3.19   3.49 2.99  
    Mining cost per ore tonne processed $/tonne 9.58 7.79   8.85 6.93  
    Processing cost $/tonne 7.94 9.80   8.77 9.90  
    Site general and admin (“G&A”) cost $/tonne 3.77 3.98   3.84 3.64  
    Cash cost per ore tonne processed $/tonne 21.29 21.57   21.46 20.47  
    Cash Costs and AISC Details          
    Mining cost (net of stockpile movements) $000s 14,295 11,319   37,834 29,786  
    Processing cost $000s 11,846 14,238   37,486 42,566  
    Site G&A cost $000s 5,617 5,787   16,405 15,671  
    Refining and transport cost $000s 51 66   304 378  
    Government royalty cost $000s 5,500 3,503   15,227 12,345  
    Gold inventory movements $000s 1,748 (1,303 ) 1,539 (1,584 )
    Cash costs1on a sales basis $000s 39,057 33,610   108,795 99,162  
    Sustaining capital $000s 4,453 2,606   11,752 10,444  
    Sustaining leases $000s 73 41   219 228  
    Corporate G&A cost $000s 2,255 1,837   6,643 5,451  
    All-In Sustaining Costs1on a sales basis $000s 45,838 38,094   127,409 115,285  
    Gold sold Au oz 27,698 29,167   83,864 105,914  
    Cash costs per gold ounce sold1 $/oz 1,410 1,152   1,297 936  
    All-In Sustaining Costs per gold ounce sold1 $/oz 1,655 1,306   1,519 1,088  

    1 Non-IFRS measure. See “Non-IFRS Measures” section for additional details.

    Bomboré Production Results

    Q3-2024 vs Q3-2023

    Gold production in Q3-2024 was 26,581 ounces, a decline of 13% from the 30,726 ounces produced in Q3-2023. The lower gold production is attributable to a 14% decrease in head grades and a 2% decrease in plant recoveries, partially offset by a 3% increase in plant throughput. The better head grades in Q3-2023 were from the sequencing of higher-grade pits in earlier periods of the mine plan, and greater ore release from more tonnes mined allowing for the stockpiling of lower-grade ore. Less tonnes were mined in Q3-2024 due to lower contractor equipment availability and heavier-than-average rainfall events combined with mining rates in Q3-2023 benefiting from the deployment of a second mining contractor. Pre-stripping activities at the Siga pits increased the strip ratio (1.85 vs 1.19) in Q3-2024, leading to the temporary drawdown of lower grade stockpiles to maintain mill throughput in August 2024. Plant recoveries for Q3-2024 were marginally lower from the greater blend of transition ore in the mill feed as mining deepens in certain pits. The presence of transition ore results in slightly lower metallurgical recoveries and additional plant maintenance due to the harder nature of the ore. Plant throughput increased in Q3-2024 as the Company successfully improved hourly plant throughput by increasing mill power draw and reducing residence time in the CIL circuit without a noticeable effect of recovery rates. Plant throughput was further impacted in Q3-2024 by a ball mill reline performed at the end the quarter (no comparable mill reline in Q3-2023). This mill reline was brought forward from Q4-2024 to ensure maximum mill availability during Q4-2024 when higher-grade ore from the SIGA pits is mined.

    Plant throughput, head grades, and recoveries in Q4-2024 are expected to improve quarter-over-quarter as mining ramps up at Siga East and Siga South for the full quarter, with more contribution of higher-grade, softer ore to the mill feed, and from the completion of all scheduled major plant maintenance in earlier periods of the year.

    9M-2024 vs 9M-2023

    Gold production in 9M-2024 was 82,244 ounces, a decline of 24% from the 107,509 ounces produced in 9M-2023. The lower gold production is attributable to a 20% decrease in head grades, a 3% decrease in plant recoveries, and a 1% decrease in plant throughput. Head grades were higher in 9M-2023 as a result of processing high-grade stockpiles accumulated during the Phase I construction, which were fully depleted by June 2023, and from the sequencing of higher-grade pits in earlier periods of the mine plan. Plant recoveries were lower in 9M-2024 mainly from a greater blend of transition ore. Plant throughput was marginally lower in 9M-2024 due to plant downtime in Q2-2024 caused by frequent grid blackouts and power dips, and time lost to switch to back-up gensets. Grid availability returned to normal levels beginning in July 2024 and with steady grid power, plant throughput is expected to reach a quarterly record in Q4-2024.

    Bomboré Operating Costs

    Q3-2024 vs Q3-2023

    AISC per gold ounce sold in Q3-2024 was $1,655, a 27% increase from $1,306 per ounce sold in Q3-2023. The higher AISC is primarily the result of: (a) a 14% decline in Q3-2024 gold production as explained above; (b) greater per ounce royalty costs from new royalty rates that took effect in October 2023, coupled with a 29% higher realized selling price ($2,473/oz vs $1,910/oz); and (c) increased unit mining costs with deeper pits, drill-and-blast associated with harder transition ore mined, and higher strip ratio, partially offset by a reduction in power costs from the utilization of lower-cost grid energy.

    Cash cost per ore tonne processed in Q3-2024 was $21.29 per tonne, a decrease of 1% from $21.57 per tonne in Q3-2023 mainly from the use of lower-cost grid power in Processing ($7.94/tonne vs $9.80/tonne) and lower site G&A costs ($3.77/tonne vs $3.98/tonne) from tight spending control, partially offset by a 23% increase ($9.58/tonne versus $7.79/tonne) in mining costs per ore tonne processed.

    Mining costs have increased as lower benches are mined resulting in longer hauls and more transition material that requires some drill-and-blast prior to excavation and greater rehandle prior to feeding into the dump pocket on the ROM pad. In addition, unit costs have increased from a higher strip ratio from the pre-stripping of the Siga pits and the waste pushback to the H1 pit that experienced a minor wall failure in 2023.

    Processing costs per ore tonne have benefitted from the introduction of grid power to the Bomboré mine in February 2024 with power cost per tonne dropping to $2.80/tonne in Q3-2024 from $4.94/tonne in Q3-2023, a decrease of $2.14/tonne. Further savings in power costs were offset by a greater blend of transition ore requiring higher per tonne consumption of power and from the rental and use of back-up diesel gensets to supply power when the grid was unavailable. Grid utilization dramatically improved in Q3-2024 at 92% versus 34% in Q2-2024 when issues with the supply system in Ghana and Côte D’Ivoire temporarily reduced the export of power into Burkina Faso. Processing costs in Q3-2024 was also impacted by higher maintenance costs from the ball mill reline.

    9M-2024 vs 9M-2023

    AISC per gold ounce sold in 9M-2024 was $1,519, a 40% increase from $1,088 per ounce sold in 9M-2023. The higher AISC were due namely for the same reasons as explained in the above section.

    NON-IFRS MEASURES

    The Company has included certain terms or performance measures commonly used in the mining industry that is not defined under IFRS, including “cash costs”, “AISC”, “EBITDA”, “adjusted EBITDA”, “adjusted earnings”, “adjusted earnings per share”, and “free cash flow”. Non-IFRS measures do not have any standardized meaning prescribed under IFRS, and therefore, they may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. The Company uses such measures to provide additional information and they should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS. For a complete description of how the Company calculates such measures and reconciliation of certain measures to IFRS terms, refer to “Non-IFRS Measures” in the Management’s Discussion and Analysis for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 which is incorporated by reference herein.

    CONFERENCE CALL AND WEBCAST

    The condensed consolidated interim financial statements and Management’s Discussion and Analysis are available at www.orezone.com and on the Company’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. Orezone will host a conference call and audio webcast to discuss 2024 third quarter results on November 6, 2024 at 8:00am PT (11:00am ET).

    Webcast
    Date:    Wednesday, November 6, 2024
    Time:    8:00 am Pacific time (11:00 am Eastern time)
    Please register for the webcast here:  Orezone Q3-2024 Conference Call and Webcast

    Conference Call

    Toll-free in U.S. and Canada: 1-800-715-9871
    International callers: +646-307-1963
    Event ID: 9776163

    QUALIFIED PERSONS
    The scientific and technical information in this news release was reviewed and approved by Mr. Rob Henderson, P. Eng, Vice-President of Technical Services and Mr. Dale Tweed, P. Eng., Vice-President of Engineering, both of whom are Qualified Persons as defined under NI 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

    About Orezone Gold Corporation

    Orezone Gold Corporation (TSX: ORE OTCQX: ORZCF) is a West African gold producer engaged in mining, developing, and exploring its 90%-owned flagship Bomboré Gold Mine in Burkina Faso. The Bomboré mine achieved commercial production on its Phase I oxide operations on December 1, 2022, and is now proceeding with its staged Phase II hard rock expansion that is expected to materially increase annual and life-of-mine gold production from the processing of hard rock mineral reserves. Orezone is led by an experienced team focused on social responsibility and sustainability with a proven track record in project construction and operations, financings, capital markets, and M&A.   

    The technical report entitled Bomboré Phase II Expansion, Definitive Feasibility Study is available on SEDAR+ and the Company’s website.

    Patrick Downey
    President and Chief Executive Officer

    Vanessa Pickering
    Manager, Investor Relations

    Tel: 1 778 945 8977 / Toll Free: 1 888 673 0663
    info@orezone.com / www.orezone.com

    For further information please contact Orezone at +1 (778) 945-8977 or visit the Company’s website at www.orezone.com.

    The Toronto Stock Exchange neither approves nor disapproves the information contained in this news release.

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains certain information that constitutes “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable Canadian Securities laws and “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable U.S. securities laws (together, “forward-looking statements”). Forward-looking statements are frequently characterized by words such as “plan”, “expect”, “project”, “intend”, “believe”, “anticipate”, “estimate”, “potential”, “possible” and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions “may”, “will”, “could”, or “should” occur, and include, amongst other statements, the Phase II hard rock expansion setting the path for Bomboré to increase annual gold production by 50% within the next 12 months and that Bomboré can grow into a 7 to 10 million ounce orebody.

    All forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements including, but not limited to, terrorist or other violent attacks, the failure of parties to contracts to honour contractual commitments, unexpected changes in laws, rules or regulations, or their enforcement by applicable authorities; social or labour unrest; changes in commodity prices; unexpected failure or inadequacy of infrastructure, the possibility of project cost overruns or unanticipated costs and expenses, accidents and equipment breakdowns, political risk, unanticipated changes in key management personnel, the spread of diseases, epidemics and pandemics diseases, market or business conditions, the failure of exploration programs, including drilling programs, to deliver anticipated results and the failure of ongoing and uncertainties relating to the availability and costs of financing needed in the future, and other factors described in the Company’s most recent annual information form and management’s discussion and analysis filed on SEDAR+ on www.sedarplus.ca. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

    Forward-looking statements are based on the applicable assumptions and factors management considers reasonable as of the date hereof, based on the information available to management at such time. These assumptions and factors include, but are not limited to, assumptions and factors related to the Company’s ability to carry on current and future operations, including: development and exploration activities; the timing, extent, duration and economic viability of such operations, including any mineral resources or reserves identified thereby; the accuracy and reliability of estimates, projections, forecasts, studies and assessments; the Company’s ability to meet or achieve estimates, projections and forecasts; the availability and cost of inputs; the price and market for outputs, including gold; foreign exchange rates; taxation levels; the timely receipt of necessary approvals or permits; the ability to meet current and future obligations; the ability to obtain timely financing on reasonable terms when required; the current and future social, economic and political conditions; and other assumptions and factors generally associated with the mining industry.

    Although the forward-looking statements contained in this press release are based upon what management of the Company believes are reasonable assumptions, the Company cannot assure investors that actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this press release and are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. Subject to applicable securities laws, the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise the forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this press release.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI China: Historical sites and artifacts impress foreign experts

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    While several expats are admiring the intricate animal patterns on an ancient Chinese bronze object, others are carefully listening to a tour guide explain the skill and wisdom behind the craftsmanship.

    It was part of the “Exploring China “Henan Tour event in Zhengzhou, Luoyang and Anyang in Central China’s Henan province from Sunday to Tuesday.

    Participants of the “Exploring China” Henan Tour admire a bronze ware at Henan Museum in Zhengzhou city. XU LIN/CHINA DAILY

    More than 40 foreign experts in classical studies from 13 countries visited Henan’s heritage sites, Longmen Grottoes and the Yinxu Museum, immersing themselves in the rich Chinese culture and civilization.

    Two other groups joined the tours in Shandong province, visiting places like the Temple of Confucius, and in Sichuan province, traveling to key archaeological sites like Sanxingdui and Jinsha.

    These experts are participants in the World Conference of Classics, being held in Beijing from Wednesday to Friday.

    “I’m excited to visit China for the first time, and I plan to travel to China again with my family, to see more of its deep culture and history,” says Michael Trapp, emeritus professor of Greek literature and thought at King’s College London.

    Before setting out, he sought advice from his Chinese doctoral student in London and his brother, a Chinese language translator who often travels to China for work. Both suggested that given his passion for history, archaeology and art, he would find his visit to Henan particularly captivating, which he does.

    At the museums, he finds that the use of modern technology has made historical sites more accessible to a modern audience, striking a delicate balance between preserving ancient materials and showing their history vividly via replicas and digital reconstructions. “This endeavor requires considerable effort and creativity,” he says.

    He believes that it’s wonderful to see the massive size of the Erlitou Site in Luoyang and the artifacts excavated from it at the nearby museum. It shows the archaeological process of their discovery.

    Thomas Michael from the United States, professor at School of Philosophy, Beijing Normal University, who does research into Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu, agrees.

    “I’ve read about all these places, but it’s the first time to see various artifacts about the origins and downfall of the Shang Dynasty (c.16th century-11th century BC) and the beginning of the Western Zhou Dynasty (c. 11th century-771 BC),” he says. “It’s amazing to see the ancient centers of Chinese civilization. These are important periods for Confucianism. … The Confucian tradition goes all the way back to Zhougong (the Duke of Zhou) from the Western Zhou Dynasty.”

    The duke was believed to have been a prolific author with humanistic ideas and written Rites of Zhou, a fundamental ancient Chinese classic on organizational theory.

    Mary Evelyn Tucker, a senior lecturer and research scholar at Yale University, says: “It’s exciting to have this cultural tour to Henan and see that China is recovering its own traditional past. … China’s modernization has developed very rapidly over the past 40 years since my first visit to the country in 1985.”

    Her research fields include Confucianism and ecology. China is moving toward ecological civilization, she says, which has greatly changed its ecology, society and spirituality.

    She says that Confucianism, Taoism and Buddhism have the cultural values for an awakening of environmental consciousness, for example, the concept of “heaven and man are united as one” in Chinese philosophy.

    Costas Synolakis, the Chair of Earth Sciences in the Academy of Athens, points out that “it’s great to see the different periods of Chinese history and how its art evolves”.

    His research focuses on how people in ancient Greece and Rome understood and dealt with extreme disasters. He’s surprised to find that the ancient Chinese tried to control floods about 4,000 years ago when he visited Henan’s museums. “It’s around the 4th and 5th centuries BC that people in the Mediterranean started to understand that floods and earthquakes are natural phenomena. … It’s motivating for me to learn much more about Chinese culture, especially the recorded floods in its history.”

    According to him, many people associate China’s history with its dynasties, but are not familiar with the country’s ancient capitals in Henan and how the Chinese shifted these ancient capitals in history. That’s why the trip has impressed him greatly.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI: CREDIT AGRICOLE SA : Crédit Agricole Immobilier announces the closing of the acquisition of Nexity Property Management and becomes the leader of Property Management in France

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press release

    Montrouge, 6 November 2024

    Crédit Agricole Immobilier announces the closing of the acquisition
    of Nexity Property Management
    and becomes the leader of Property Management in France

    Crédit Agricole Immobilier is pleased to announce that it has completed the acquisition of Nexity Property Management, a Nexity subsidiary specialised in commercial and residential asset management. With this transaction, announced on 25 July 2024, Crédit Agricole Immobilier becomes the leader in institutional property management, in France 1.

    The acquisition of Nexity Property Management brings additional expertise to Crédit Agricole Immobilier, ranging from advisory services to accounting and technical rental management, supervision of works, shopping malls management etc.

    In addition, Nexity Property Management’s powerful network of over 30 branches and offices across France, comes as an addition to strengthens Crédit Agricole Immobilier’s own presence. It supports Crédit Agricole Immobilier in addressing the needs of its institutional customers, including the customers of the Regional Banks and subsidiaries of the Crédit Agricole Group. This increased local footprint, will allow CAI to bring their expertise to clients’ investment projects, in line with the Universal Customer-focused Banking Model approach.

    This new transaction, taking place 18 months after the acquisition of Sudeco, a long-standing Property Management player and commercial property specialist, has established Crédit Agricole Immobilier as the market leader with the most comprehensive range of services for institutional customers across all asset categories, from residential to commercial.
    Overall, Crédit Agricole Immobilier now manages more than 11,000 assets.

    For Nexity, this transaction is fully aligned with the group’s roadmap, specifically with the refocusing strategy launched in 2023.

    This transaction has no significant impact on Crédit Agricole S.A.’s CET1 ratio and should generate a return on investment that is in line with Crédit Agricole’s policy.

    “We are so delighted and proud to welcome the Nexity Property Management teams to Crédit Agricole Immobilier. This acquisition represents a decisive step forward in our strategy of becoming the leader of property management in France. We are deepening our expertise in all areas of property management and strengthening our presence across France. By joining forces, we are ready to take on new challenges. This is the perfect expression of our 2025 strategic plan, as well as the mid-term plan of Crédit Agricole Group: it will allow us to support our clients more extensively on strategic social and environmental issues, such as reducing the carbon footprint of their property assets.”

    Valérie Wanquet, Chief Executive Officer of Crédit Agricole Immobilier

    “I am delighted that we have completed this transaction with the Crédit Agricole Group, a long-term strategic partner of the Nexity group, which is fully in line with our efforts to refocus our activities, which we began at the end of 2023. I would like to thank all Nexity Property Management teams and I wish them every success with their new shareholder. We are certain that Crédit Agricole Immobilier will be able to maintain the quality of its services and enhance its market share.”

    Jean-Claude Bassien, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Nexity

    ABOUT CRÉDIT AGRICOLE IMMOBILIER
    A subsidiary of the Crédit Agricole Group, Crédit Agricole Immobilier supports its individual, corporate and public authority customers with real estate projects throughout France while upholding three fundamental principles: sustainability and performance of buildings, respect for the environment and decarbonisation, and social cohesion and inclusion.
    As a partner in the most ambitious property development projects, we work with our customers to create value throughout their projects: transaction, letting, rental management, co-ownership associations, property strategy, residential and commercial development, refurbishment, renovation, development of spaces, property management and operation.
    To find out more, visit: www.ca-immobilier.fr/nous-connaitre

    CRÉDIT AGRICOLE IMMOBILIER PRESS CONTACT
    Vanessa Feugères – +33 (0)7 86 84 19 15 – vanessa.feugeres@ca-immobilier.fr

    NEXITY, LIFE TOGETHER
    With revenues of €4.3 billion in 2023, Nexity, the leading global real estate operator, is present all over France and operates in all areas of development and services. Our strategy as leading global real estate operator allows us to meet all our clients’ needs, whether they are individuals, corporates, institutions or authorities. Our raison d’être ‘life together’ reflects our commitment to create sustainable spaces, neighbourhoods and towns for them, that help them to build and rebuild connections. For the sixth consecutive year, Nexity was ranked the top contracting authority by Association pour le développement du Bâtiment Bas Carbone (BBCA – a French low-carbon building association), is a member of the Bloomberg Gender Equality Index, Best Workplaces 2021 and was certified a Great Place to Work® in September 2022.
    Nexity is listed on Service de Règlement Différé (SRD – Deferred Settlement Service), in Compartment A of Euronext and on the SBF 120.

    NEXITY PRESS CONTACTS
    Cyril Rizk – Media Relations Manager / +33(0)6 73 49 72 61 – presse@nexity.fr
    Emma Durel – Media Relations Officer / +33 (0)6 99 14 09 28 – presse@nexity.fr
    Anne-Sophie Lanaute – Head of Investor Relations and Financial Communications / +33 (0)6 58 17 24 22 – investorrelations@nexity.fr


    1 In terms of revenues, source: Xerfi.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI China: HK, Shanghai foster ties for win-win development

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

    Officials vowed on Tuesday to deepen collaboration between Shanghai and Hong Kong to further unleash the two economic engines’ potential in the nation’s further opening-up, emphasizing the special administrative region’s springboard role for mainland enterprises to go global.

    They made the pledge at a high-level conference promoting Hong Kong’s investment opportunities in Shanghai, a significant event during the seventh China International Import Expo.

    Addressing the 2024 Hong Kong Investment Promotion Conference-Shanghai Forum, Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu stressed that Hong Kong possesses the capacity to serve as an investment and financing hub for the development of Shanghai and related mainland businesses, welcoming more enterprises to leverage Hong Kong for global expansion.

    He said Hong Kong is home to over 1,400 mainland companies listed on the city’s stock exchange, with close to 200 originating from Shanghai alone — boasting a total market value exceeding HK$2 trillion ($260 billion).

    “Leveraging each other’s strengths, Hong Kong and Shanghai can sail together toward new horizons,” Lee said.

    He believes that the two cities can further strengthen cooperation in areas such as global talent attraction, services and employment so as to advance the development of talent hubs in both locations.

    At the same event, Hong Kong Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po extended an invitation to mainland enterprises to establish headquarters in Hong Kong, highlighting the city’s status as a premier treasury center with unrestricted capital movement and tax incentives offered by the SAR government.

    Zhou Ji, executive deputy director of the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council, highlighted that both Shanghai and Hong Kong serve as vital gateways in China, connecting international and domestic markets.

    Zhou pledged that his office will continue to support Hong Kong’s unique role in Shanghai-Hong Kong cooperation and the country’s external opening, as well as to back ongoing research and implementation of favorable policies to facilitate Hong Kong’s development.

    Shanghai Mayor Gong Zheng stated that Shanghai will further encourage its enterprises to invest in Hong Kong, while particularly strengthening cooperation between the two cities in emerging industries such as artificial intelligence and biomedicine. Furthermore, Gong mentioned that Shanghai will support more qualified enterprises to list on the stock exchange in Hong Kong.

    He also pledged that the two cities will work together to jointly explore overseas markets. Shanghai will fully leverage Hong Kong’s advantages as a super-connector, assisting businesses in establishing a presence in international markets and participating in international cooperation as well as competition, he said.

    This year, more than 300 Hong Kong enterprises are participating in the import expo to promote Hong Kong’s quality goods and services, accounting for one-tenth of the total number of exhibitors.

    During the promotion conference, Invest Hong Kong under the Hong Kong government signed agreements with numerous Shanghai enterprises to deepen cooperation.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Rosanna Costa: Medium – and long-run trends in interest rates – causes and implications for monetary policy

    Source: Bank for International Settlements

    1. Welcome Remarks

    Good morning to all the speakers, discussants, the organizers of this event, Atif Mian, Sofia Bauducco, Mariana García and Lucciano Villacorta, and everyone who is here attending in person and to those following us via streaming. We welcome you to the twenty-seventh Annual Conference of the Central Bank of Chile entitled “Medium- and Long-Run Trends in Interest Rates: Causes and Implications for Monetary Policy.”

    Since 1997, the Central Bank of Chile (BCCh) has been convening prominent scholars and policymakers to this Conference to discuss major issues in central banking and their implications for emerging economies. Since its inception, this Conference has served as a bridge between academics and policymakers. This version is no exception: fresh and thoughtful research will support the discussion over the next two days on a topic that is very much front and center on the policy agenda. We will enjoy the presentations of seven authors, seven discussants, two keynote speakers, and a policy panel.

    2. Motivation and context

    This year’s conference tackles a topic that is increasingly at the forefront of economic discussions: the future trajectory of long-run real interest rates, their potential determinants, and the implications for monetary policy. The timing of this topic couldn’t be more relevant, especially in light of the sharpest and most synchronized monetary tightening we have seen in decades.

    As we all know, central banks in advanced economies have recently started lowering their policy rates and in many emerging economies this normalization process has been under way for some time now. Even so, policy rates had risen significantly over the past two years from their record lows in decades. This shift has sparked a lively debate regarding the future of medium- and long-run trends in the real rates; specifically, whether policy rates will revert to their pre-pandemic lows or will settle at a higher level.

    Opinions on this matter vary widely among experts and I think there is not a clear consensus on what the long run interest rates will look like in the future. On the one hand, there are reasons to believe that real interest rates are likely to revert to their historical lows, as the key factors that were mainly thought to have driven these rates down over the past forty years-such as demographic shifts, stagnant productivity growth, increased market power, higher risk aversion and sustained demand for safe assets-do not seem likely to revert sufficiently to produce a significant and lasting increase in real interest rates in the coming years.

    On the other hand, recent market indicators suggest that equilibrium long-term real interest rates have risen. Also, some new estimates of the natural interest rate-defined as the “long-run” equilibrium rate after shocks have dissipated-indicates that this rate may have risen in several advanced countries in the past few years. As I will discuss in a while, this shift could indicate that at least some structural drivers of real interest rates have changed direction or that the natural interest rate is adjusting to a new economic environment possibly characterized by higher levels of public debt.

    The future evolution of the natural interest rate has significant implications for monetary policy. Accurately assessing the long-run trend of the natural rate is essential for central banks, as this rate serves as a crucial reference point for monetary policy. The difference between the real interest rate and the natural rate provides valuable insight into a central bank’s monetary stance and aids in evaluating various policy options.

    However, the natural rate is an abstract concept, and its estimates often carry considerable uncertainty, particularly in the post-pandemic period. Since the natural rate is not directly observable, understanding its determinants has become vital for effective monetary policy. I am confident that the fruitful discussions we will have during this conference will deepen our understanding of these determinants and clarify where natural rates and other relevant interest rates may stand in the years ahead.

    In these opening remarks, I would like to take a moment to briefly review the key empirical long run trends we have observed in interest rates, as well as the primary explanations put forth in the literature. Following that, I will walk you through the main agenda of the Conference.

    3. Drivers behind the trends in interest rates

    Over the past forty years (up to the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020-2021), we have seen a remarkable decline in nominal interest rates across the globe. For example, during the 1981 to 2020 period, nominal returns on U.S. Treasury bonds, both short and long term, dropped significantly. The 2-year Treasury Bills experienced a drop of around 14 percentage points, and 10-year bonds saw a decline of 13 percentage points. During this same period, inflation also fell, albeit to a lesser degree, leading to real rate declines of about 5 and 4 percentage points for the 2- and 10-year bonds, respectively, putting sovereign real interest rates close to zero and even in negative territory for some periods. The decline was not limited to sovereign bond rates; it was also present in the returns on other so-called “safe” assets. Importantly, this downward trend was not exclusive to the United States. Real long-term rates have declined by several percentage points since the early 1980s in both developed and emerging economies, so this appears to be a global phenomenon.

    The global downward trend in observed risk-free rates over an extended period suggests a significant decline in the natural interest rate, often referred to as the “long-run” equilibrium rate. This secular decline has coincided with a relatively stable trajectory in the marginal product of capital, a stable trajectory on the returns on risky assets, and a stable trajectory in the investment rate, particularly in advanced economies. As a result, these patterns are often attributed to factors that have increased the overall supply of savings over the years, alongside factors that have redirected this excess in savings toward the demand for safe assets rather than productive investments.

    In recent years, much of the literature has centered on the hypothesis of a “global saving glut.” This theory suggests that a significant excess of savings from certain countries and affluent groups has led to a marked shift toward safe assets. Consequently, there has been a notable increase in the prices of these assets, accompanied by a decline in interest rates.

    One contributor to this phenomenon was the increased savings from emerging economies, particularly since the 1990s. Factors such as robust economic growth, soaring commodity prices, and high risk aversion all fueled greater savings in these regions. As a result, these economies channeled substantial portions of their savings into global markets, with a significant impact on interest rates in developed countries.

    Another contributor to this saving glut was the increasing savings rates among the wealthiest households in developed nations. As income inequality has risen, rich households have saved a larger share of their income, further contributing to the excess savings phenomenon. Research indicates that the savings of the top 1% in the United States is comparable to the savings generated by the excess from emerging markets, a trend the literature refersto as the “saving glut of the rich.” This dynamic has profound implications for wealth distribution and economic stability.

    Other mentioned explanations for the excess savings are linked to more structural factors, such as the secular stagnation hypothesis, which suggests a persistent decline in potential economic growth that limits investment opportunities, thereby driving savings toward safer assets. Additionally, demographic changes-including declining population growth and longer life expectancy-have influenced savings behavior across generations and regions.

    Finally, rising risk aversion, the declining cost of investment goods, and the substantial increase in corporate power over recent years further explain why this increase in savings has been directed toward safe assets rather than productive investments.

    Over the past 40 years, all these factors have shaped the dynamics of savings, investment, and, consequently, interest rates, each contributing with varying significance during different phases. Looking ahead, the trajectory of interest rates will heavily depend on the uncertain evolution of these drivers.

    The outlook for these structural factors influencing real interest rates is mixed. On the one hand, several key factors behind the pre-pandemic decline in interest rates- such as low potential growth, rising inequality, increasing uncertainty, growing market power, and longer life expectancy- show no significant signs of changing direction. These forces suggest that real interest rates may revert to their declining pre-pandemic trend. On the other hand, additional factors could lead to a sustained rise in rates. These include a decrease in savings due to a growing inactive population, substantial fiscal deficits resulting in very high levels of debt, potential productivity gains from advancements in artificial intelligence, geopolitical risks and climate disasters affecting global savings, and significant investments in the green transition.

    I hope our upcoming discussion will help clarify the direction of these drivers and enhance our understanding of where the natural interest rate may be headed in the future.

    4. Conference contents

    Let me now give a very brief overview of what we will be hearing today and tomorrow:

    The Conference will start with the session “Interest Rates and Macroeconomic Policy” In this session, the paper by Francesco Bianchi, Renato Faccini and Leonardo Melosi examines the role of fiscal policy in shaping the future path of real interest rates. Then, the paper by Gabriel Jiménez, Dmitry Kuvshinov, José-Luis Peydró and Bjorn Richter will look at the links between the path of the monetary policy rate over time and the risk of banking crises from a historical perspective.

    Then, we will continue with the first keynote speech, delivered by Ricardo Reis. He will address the implications of interest rate trends on inflation, as well as the subsequent effects of inflation on these trends.

    We will then transition to our second academic session, which will focus on “Theories of Natural Interest Rates.” The natural interest rate, an abstract concept, is defined as the interest rate that prevails in long-term equilibrium once economic shocks have dissipated and prices are fully flexible. As a latent variable, understanding its determinants and refining its measurement is of paramount importance.

    This session will begin with a paper by Ozge Akinci, Gianluca Beningno, Marco del Negro, and Albert Queralto, who propose a complementary concept referred to as the Financial (In) Stability Real Interest Rate. While the natural interest rate is typically associated with macroeconomic stability, this new concept emphasizes the critical importance of financial stability. Following this presentation, Galo Nuño will discuss three theories concerning natural interest rates. Traditional theories often highlight structural drivers such as technological advancement and demographic changes. However, Galo’s paper will challenge this conventional view, exploring how factors such as public debt, household inequality, the zero lower bound, and persistent negative supply shocks may influence natural interest rates.

    To conclude this session, we will hear from Elías Albagli, Sofia Bauducco, Guillermo Carlomagno, Luis Gonzales, and Juan Marcos Wlasiuk, who will discuss the potential impacts of climate change and escalating geopolitical tensions on long-term interest rates.

    The second day will begin with the keynote speech titled “Long-Run Interest Rates: Past, Present, and Future” by Atif Mian. He will explore the interconnections between interest rates and both private and public debt over time. Atif will first address the role of inequality in explaining the simultaneous decline in interest rates and the rise in debt over the past few decades. He will then examine the dynamics of debt, discussing an appropriate constraint on interest rates to prevent explosive borrowing. Finally, he will focus on estimating future yields.

    Next, we will transition to the session titled “Interest Rates, Inflation, and Transmission to Emerging Markets.” This session will open with the paper “U.S. Anti-Inflationary Policy and Emerging Economies: 1980 vs. 2020s” by Drishan Banerjee, Galina Hale, and Harrison Shieh. Their paper analyzes macroeconomic data from advanced and emerging economies in the 1980s and 2020s to highlight differences in how U.S. monetary policies have impacted emerging markets in these two distinct periods. The second paper in this session, by Francisco Legaspe and Liliana Varela, will show how country-specific risks, such as political uncertainty and risk on debt repayment explain excess returns from investing in local currency assets in LATAM countries. Finally, a policy panel featuring Elias Albagli, Jean-Marc Natal, Boris Hofmann, and Ricardo Reis will offer insights into the future of interest rates and their implications for monetary policy in emerging economies. 

    5. Acknowledgements

    I would like to especially thank Atif Mian for being the external organizer of this Conference, as well as locals Sofia Bauducco, Mariana García and Lucciano Villacorta for putting togethersuch a wonderful program. I also thank all the speakers and contributors and look forward to the Conference volume that we will publish in some months with its formatted contents.

    Let me finish by thanking María José Reyes, Constanza Martinelli, Carolina Besa, Daniela Gaete, Daphne Guiloff, Pablo Barros, and both the Public Affairs Department and the Economic Research Department of the Central Bank of Chile for all their invaluable help managing the logistics of organizing this Annual Conference.

    I wish you a fruitful discussion over the next two days.

    Thank you.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Russia: HSE and Yandex Present Report on Integration of Artificial Intelligence into Higher Education

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –

    The Higher School of Economics and Yandex Education have prepared a joint report, Artificial Intelligence in Education. It analyzes leading global practices that reveal the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies in the educational sphere. The report is a map with cases of universities in different countries that are already using AI today. The goal of the project is to help Russian universities implement AI, based on the experience of other universities.

    The study includes an extensive block of real cases and examples, including on the topic of the practical use of AI in the world’s leading universities: from helping students explain concepts and translate texts to structuring materials and preparing educational documents.

    The authors analyzed a number of sociological studies around the world. The results of the analysis show that AI is already actively used in both educational (today 49% of students use generative technologies) and management and research activities. At the same time, 47% of students note the positive impact of text generative technologies on learning. As for the main ways of using new technologies, the most popular were clarifying concepts and working with questions for understanding specific disciplinary concepts (56% of those who use GPT), in second place were research tasks and working with literature (45%), in third place was translation of texts (42%), in fourth place was creation and analysis of texts (39%).

    To make the material as interactive as possible, experts from the National Research University Higher School of Economics and Yandex Education have created a special online resource, which contains examples and cases. The platform is a live space that not only demonstrates examples of AI use, but also forms a picture of possible scenarios for its application in the educational environment. Universities that have AI application practices can send their cases to the authors through a special form on the site, and they will be added to the case library.

    The report identifies key areas for integrating AI into the work of students, teachers, researchers, and managers. These areas may become the closest areas for AI development at universities. In this context, the Higher School of Economics has already adopted its own course on using AI in the learning process. The university has formulated an ethical and educational policy, including recommendations on when and to what extent AI should be used in independent work, as well as in which cases it is necessary to inform the teacher about the generated text. The HSE case demonstrates how the correct integration of technologies will allow students to develop the necessary skills for a full and fruitful educational process.

    “At Yandex Education, we have seen how AI technologies have really begun to penetrate and take root in schools, universities, and EdTech platforms over the past year. It is important for the university community and bigtech to see where new growth points are emerging and how the potential of AI can be applied in education. That is why, together with the HSE, we conducted a study of Russian and foreign practices. They turned out to be very different and affect the management system, the life of a student, teachers, and even the didactics of higher education. At the same time, our goal was to create not a frozen picture, but a constantly updated digest of the best global practices. It is in them that university managers, teachers, and researchers will be able to find inspiration for new projects and changing their reality,” comments Kirill Barannikov, Head of Strategic Development of Higher Education at Yandex Education.

    “At the Higher School of Economics, we focus on the opportunities that AI provides for improving the educational and scientific processes at the university. HSE is launching various initiatives aimed at supporting the correct use of AI by both teachers and students. At the same time, we advocate for compliance with ethical principles when using AI and were the first Russian university to adopt an ethical code for the use of artificial intelligence in the educational process,” said Evgeny Terentyev, Director Institute of Education HSE University, Head of International Laboratory for Evaluation of Practices and Innovations in Education.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ6: Pursuing positive interaction of airports in Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by the Hon Gary Zhang and a reply by the Secretary for Transport and Logistics, Mr Lam Sai-hung, in the Legislative Council today (November 6):

    Question:

         The Outline Development Plan for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) puts forward consolidating and enhancing Hong Kong’s status as an international aviation hub, pursuing the development and positive interaction of airports in GBA, and developing a world-class airport cluster in GBA. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

    (1) whether it will study constructing certain sections of the Hong Kong Island West-Hung Shui Kiu Rail Link in parallel with the construction of the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Western Rail Link, so as to facilitate direct passenger access to the MTR Sunny Bay Station when the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Western Rail Link is commissioned and to connect with Qianhai and Shenzhen Bay as well as the airports of Hong Kong and Shenzhen, thereby creating a Hong Kong-Shenzhen super aviation hub; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;

    (2) as the Government has indicated earlier in its reply to a question raised by a Member of this Council that the implementation of the immigration arrangement of the co-location arrangement at Hong Kong International Airport, which involves legal and implementation issues, has to be carefully considered, whether the co-location arrangement will, according to the findings of the Government’s latest study, affect the transfer time of transit passengers and the mode of passenger transport for transit passengers to the Mainland; and

    (3) whether it will consider expanding the mode of HKIA Dongguan Logistics Park to other GBA cities, so as to meet the demand of the manufacturing industries in GBA for international air transport; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?

    Reply:

    President,

         Hong Kong is an international aviation hub. This positioning is recognised in the National 14th Five-Year Plan and the Outline Development Plan for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA). To implement this national strategy and to enhance the long-term competitiveness of Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) and Hong Kong’s aviation industry, the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) and the Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) have launched a series of measures, including enhancing the connection between HKIA and the Mainland, to proactively contribute to the development of a world-class airport cluster in the GBA.

         On the other hand, the HKSAR Government promulgated the Hong Kong Major Transport Infrastructure Development Blueprint at the end of last year. The Blueprint consolidates all major transport infrastructure currently under planning, design and construction in a forward-looking manner, and holistically outlines and plans for the development of strategic transport infrastructure, including the recommendation to take forward the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Western Rail Link (Hung Shui Kiu-Qianhai) (HSWRL) and Hong Kong Island West-Hung Shui Kiu Rail Link, with a view to meeting the transport and logistics demand up to 2046 and beyond.

         My reply to the three parts of the question is as follows:

    (1) The Governments of HKSAR and Shenzhen are taking forward the HSWRL project through the Task Force for Hong Kong-Shenzhen Co-operation on Cross-Boundary Railway Infrastructure jointly established by the two governments. Currently, the first stage and second stage studies of the HSWRL project undertaken by the Task Force have been completed, which confirmed the strategic value and necessity of the project. The studies also initially assessed the planning, engineering feasibility, benefits, environmental impact, construction and operation arrangements of the railway scheme. The Governments of HKSAR and Shenzhen are now working together to commence the next stage of preparatory work. The current proposed alignment of the HSWRL should be able to meet the demand arising from the planned developments of the Hung Shui Kiu/Ha Tsuen New Development Area and Qianhai Co-operation Zone in Shenzhen, as well as the need for closer social, economic and personnel exchanges of the two places. In the long run, flexibility could be allowed for the Shenzhen and Hong Kong sections of HSWRL to extend northwards and southwards respectively.

         Meanwhile, the HKSAR Government is planning for the transport infrastructure for the Kau Yi Chau Artificial Islands (KYCAI), amongst which the preliminary alignment of Hong Kong Island West-Hung Shui Kiu Rail Link will pass through the KYCAI, Sunny Bay, Tuen Mun East and Hung Shui Kiu for connection with the planned HSWRL. We will study the implementation programme and interchange arrangement at Sunny Bay Station, with a view to maximising the cost benefits of the related railway network.

    (2) With regard to the proposal of enhancing the connection between Hong Kong and the Mainland via implementing “co-location arrangement” at HKIA, while there are precedents of the implementation of “co-location arrangement” at the road-based and rail-based boundary control points between the HKSAR and the Mainland, adopting such arrangement at HKIA will involve different legal and implementation issues and thus overall benefits, taking into account its mode of operation as an international aviation hub in connecting different destinations. As such, this has to be carefully considered.

         One of the considerations under study is the transit time for passengers as mentioned by the Member. Currently, transit passengers can proceed to their boarding gates after security check without going through any clearance procedures at HKIA. If “co-location arrangement” is implemented at HKIA, transit passengers travelling to/from the Mainland must complete immigration and customs clearance procedures of the Mainland at HKIA, which may increase the transit time for these passengers depending on the specific arrangements. We will continue our study on the benefits and implications of the proposed implementation of “co-location arrangement” at the airport from various perspectives, including its potential impact on transit time.

         Meanwhile, we will work with the AAHK to continue our efforts in putting forward measures to enhance clearance efficiency and connectivity with the Mainland, which includes developing the intermodal transport connection between HKIA and other cities in the GBA. In this regard, we will continue to pursue co-operation with Zhuhai Airport, including enhancing the Fly-Via-Zhuhai-HK service by promoting the service to more cities in the Mainland with which Hong Kong does not have direct flights. By integrating the international aviation network of HKIA and the domestic aviation network of Zhuhai Airport, we can achieve greater synergy and enhance Hong Kong’s status as an international aviation hub.

    (3) Dongguan is the manufacturing centre in the GBA with large quantities of goods to be exported. With no airport in Dongguan, many goods manufactured in Dongguan and its neighboring regions are being transported to HKIA by land for exporting to the overseas every day. To fully capitalise on HKIA’s advantages in air cargo and to meet the demand for international aviation transport from the manufacturing sector in the GBA, the AAHK is taking forward the sea-air intermodal cargo transshipment mode in collaboration with Dongguan. Under this mode, export cargo from the Mainland can go through security screening, palletisation and cargo acceptance in advance in the upstream HKIA Dongguan Logistics Park set up in Dongguan. It will then be transported seamlessly by sea to the cargo pier on the airside of HKIA for direct transshipment to overseas destinations via Hong Kong’s international aviation network. International cargo may also be imported into the Mainland vice versa. This mode will provide a more seamless and convenient international air network for the cargo in the GBA, improve the efficiency of cross-border air cargo transshipment, and further leverage Hong Kong’s function as an air cargo transshipment hub.

         The AAHK expects to complete the first-phase construction of the permanent facility of the HKIA Dongguan Logistics Park Phase 1 by the end of next year in Dongguan and to commence the preliminary study of the development plan for Phase 2 development next year. In light of the fact that Dongguan is the manufacturing centre in the GBA, the AAHK will focus resources to press ahead with the development of the sea-air intermodal cargo transshipment mode and construction of the HKIA Dongguan Logistics Park with Dongguan to maximise the benefits of the sea-air intermodal cargo transshipment mode.

         â€‹Thank you, President.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI: Hapag-Lloyd Partners with HERE Technologies to Transform Global Supply Chain Visibility with Advanced Tracking Solution

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • Hapag-Lloyd has equipped over 1.5 million containers with advanced tracking devices, integrating HERE Tracking into their real-time tracking solution to enhance inland Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA) calculations across global transportation networks.
    • HERE Tracking delivers precise, AI-powered ETAs, providing Hapag-Lloyd with critical data for better operational planning, control and customer satisfaction.

    Hamburg, Germany and Amsterdam, Netherlands — Hapag-Lloyd, a global leader in container shipping, and HERE Technologies, the leading location data and technology company, today announced a strategic partnership focused on significantly improving visibility in global supply chains. HERE Tracking enhances Hapag-Lloyd’s existing real-time smart container tracking solution Live Position with predictive ETAs for inland transportation, driving operational efficiency and improving customer satisfaction.

    As supply chain disruptions continue to impact industries worldwide, the need for real-time visibility has never been greater. With the deployment of over 1.5 million container tracking devices to 90% of Hapag Lloyd’s total fleet, utilizing the HERE Tracking solution, Hapag-Lloyd can now accurately predict arrival of these containers across their rail, barge and truck transportation networks. The tracking devices will extend to Hapag-Lloyd’s entire fleet and include ETA prediction early next year.

    By leveraging AI-powered, predictive ETAs from HERE, businesses and operations managers can rely on continuously updated data throughout the entire transport journey. This accuracy empowers more effective planning and decision-making, ultimately improving operational efficiency.

    HERE Tracking, a versatile location service, offers customers the ability to monitor transportation in real time, both outdoors and indoors, and across multiple transportation modes. Along with predictive ETAs, the service also provides customizable geofencing for smart, event-based alerts and notifications and advanced post-trip analytics.

    HERE Tracking is delivered via an application programming interface (API), offering seamless integration with existing enterprise software, and allowing customers to maintain full control of their data.

    Jason Jameson, Chief Customer Officer at HERE Technologies, said: “We are excited to redefine the future of supply chain visibility together with Hapag-Lloyd and to provide their customers with the precise ETAs they need to stay competitive in a constantly evolving marketplace. We are looking forward to extending our partnership with Hapag-Lloyd to further enhance their service offerings for even greater operational efficiency and end-customer satisfaction.”

    “As the first carrier to offer real-time visibility of our container locations through our Live Position product, Hapag-Lloyd is taking the next step with HERE to enhance inland ETA predictions,” said Patrick Briest, Head of Network & Operations IT Products at Hapag-Lloyd. “While we already know where each container is at any moment, our collaboration with HERE allows us to predict where it will be across any transport mode, in any country. This capability significantly boosts our operational planning and supports our customers with unparalleled precision in shipment timing.”

    Media Contacts
    HERE Technologies
    Dr. Sebastian Kurme
    +49 173 515 3549 
    sebastian.kurme@here.com

    Anna Glockner
    +44 7855 170344
    anna.glockner@here.com

    Hapag-Lloyd
    Hanja Maria Richter
    +49 40 3001 5102
    HanjaMaria.Richter@hlag.com

    Leon Schulz
    +49 40 3001 4042
    LeonJukka.Schulz@hlag.com

    About HERE Technologies
    HERE has been a pioneer in mapping and location technology for almost 40 years. Today, the HERE location platform is recognized as the most complete in the industry, powering location-based products, services and custom maps for organizations and enterprises across the globe. From autonomous driving and seamless logistics to new mobility experiences, HERE allows its partners and customers to innovate while retaining control over their data and safeguarding privacy. Find out how HERE is moving the world forward at here.com.

    About Hapag-Lloyd
    With a fleet of 287 modern container ships and a total transport capacity of 2.2 million TEU, Hapag-Lloyd is one of the world’s leading liner shipping companies. In the Liner Shipping segment, the Company has around 13,700 employees and 400 offices in 140 countries. Hapag-Lloyd has a container capacity of 3.2 million TEU – including one of the largest and most modern fleets of reefer containers. A total of 114 liner services worldwide ensure fast and reliable connections between more than 600 ports on all the continents. In the Terminal & Infrastructure segment, Hapag-Lloyd has equity stakes in 20 terminals in Europe, Latin America, the United States, India and North Africa. Around 2,900 employees are assigned to the Terminal & Infrastructure segment and provide complementary logistics services at selected locations in addition to the terminal activities.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Media Advisory: Fortinet Returns to World Economic Forum Annual Meeting on Cybersecurity

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SUNNYVALE, Calif., Nov. 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    Derek Manky, Chief Security Strategist and VP of Global Threat Intelligence at Fortinet
    “In today’s interconnected world, the fight against cybercrime requires a unified front. Public-private partnerships are vital for sharing threat intelligence, resources, and innovations that collectively help organizations worldwide stay ahead of digital adversaries. The World Economic Forum’s Annual Meeting on Cybersecurity continues to offer a unique opportunity for collaboration where fellow cybersecurity leaders share effective strategies and develop real-world solutions for disrupting cybercrime.”

    News Summary
    Fortinet® (NASDAQ: FTNT), the global cybersecurity leader driving the convergence of networking and security, today announced that the company will return to the World Economic Forum’s Annual Meeting on Cybersecurity in Geneva, Switzerland, from November 11 to 13. Fortinet is a founding member of the Forum’s Centre for Cybersecurity and will again engage in the yearly event, which brings together global cybersecurity leaders from business, government, international organizations, civil society, and academia to foster collaboration and enhance collective cyber resilience.

    Derek Manky, Fortinet Chief Security Strategist and VP of Global Threat Intelligence, will share expertise and insights as the moderator of a panel discussion on November 13 about countering cybercrime through public-private partnerships. In addition to his active role in the Forum and its Centre for Cybersecurity’s Partnership Against Cybercrime and the Cybercrime Atlas initiative, Derek is actively involved with global threat intelligence initiatives, including NATO NICPINTERPOL Expert Working Group, the Cyber Threat Alliance working committee, and FIRST, all in effort to shape the future of actionable threat intelligence and proactive security strategy.

    In the past year, as a leading contributor to the Cybercrime Atlas initiative, Fortinet has collaborated to promote new approaches to accelerate the fight against cybercrime. Significant progress has been made, with the Cybercrime Atlas community vetting more than 10,000 actionable data points, creating seven intelligence packages to support cyber defenders, and supporting two cross-border disruption campaigns through the group’s research and intelligence.

    Session Details

    Title: Better, Faster, Stronger: Accelerating Operational Collaborations to Disrupt Cybercrime
    When: November 13, 2024, 10:30 a.m. CET
    Where: World Economic Forum headquarters, Geneva, Switzerland
    Overview: Operational collaborations to counter cybercrime are leading to arrests and shutdowns of massive criminal networks in 2024. However, we are not yet collaborating at a scale or speed that will change the calculation for criminals. This session will offer insights into how to harness the lessons from successful operational collaborations around the world to systematically disrupt cybercriminals in 2025.
    Speakers:

    • Derek Manky, Chief Security Strategist and VP of Global Threat Intelligence, Fortinet (facilitator)
    • Edvardas Šileris, Head, European Cybercrime Centre (EC3), Europol
    • Brigadier General Oleksandr Potii, Deputy Chairman, State Service of Special Communications and Information Protection of Ukraine
    • Craig Rice, Chief Executive Officer, Cyber Defence Alliance
    • Samantha Kight, Head, Industry Security, Global System for Mobile Communications Association (GSMA)

    More about the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting on Cybersecurity

    In a rapidly evolving cyberspace, where innovation and technology continuously redefine boundaries, systemic inequity is emerging when it comes to the capabilities of
    organizations and countries to safeguard the benefits of technological progress.

    According to the World Economic Forum’s Global Cybersecurity Outlook 2024, the number of organizations maintaining minimum viable cyber resilience has decreased by 30%. This decline has further widened the skills gap in organizational cyber capabilities. The risks associated with this growing technological divide threaten the entire ecosystem and disproportionately impact the already vulnerable.

    Against this backdrop, the Annual Meeting on Cybersecurity 2024 will bring together over 150 of the world’s foremost cybersecurity leaders from business, government, international organizations, civil society, and academia to foster collaboration on making cyberspace safer and more resilient for all.

    Additional Resources

    About Fortinet
    Fortinet (NASDAQ: FTNT) is a driving force in the evolution of cybersecurity and the convergence of networking and security. Our mission is to secure people, devices, and data everywhere, and today we deliver cybersecurity everywhere you need it with the largest integrated portfolio of over 50 enterprise-grade products. Well over half a million customers trust Fortinet’s solutions, which are among the most deployed, most patented, and most validated in the industry. The Fortinet Training Institute, one of the largest and broadest training programs in the industry, is dedicated to making cybersecurity training and new career opportunities available to everyone. Collaboration with esteemed organizations from both the public and private sectors, including CERTs, government entities, and academia, is a fundamental aspect of Fortinet’s commitment to enhance cyber resilience globally. FortiGuard Labs, Fortinet’s elite threat intelligence and research organization, develops and utilizes leading-edge machine learning and AI technologies to provide customers with timely and consistently top-rated protection and actionable threat intelligence. Learn more at https://www.fortinet.com, the Fortinet Blog, and FortiGuard Labs. 

    Copyright © 2024 Fortinet, Inc. All rights reserved. The symbols ® and ™ denote respectively federally registered trademarks and common law trademarks of Fortinet, Inc., its subsidiaries and affiliates. Fortinet’s trademarks include, but are not limited to, the following: Fortinet, the Fortinet logo, FortiGate, FortiOS, FortiGuard, FortiCare, FortiAnalyzer, FortiManager, FortiASIC, FortiClient, FortiCloud, FortiMail, FortiSandbox, FortiADC, FortiAI, FortiAIOps, FortiAntenna, FortiAP, FortiAPCam, FortiAuthenticator, FortiCache, FortiCall, FortiCam, FortiCamera, FortiCarrier, FortiCASB, FortiCentral, FortiConnect, FortiController, FortiConverter, FortiCSPM, FortiCWP, FortDAST, FortiDB, FortiDDoS, FortiDeceptor, FortiDeploy, FortiDevSec, FortiEDR, FortiExplorer, FortiExtender, FortiFirewall, FortiFlex FortiFone, FortiGSLB, FortiGuest, FortiHypervisor, FortiInsight, FortiIsolator, FortiLAN, FortiLink, FortiMonitor, FortiNAC, FortiNDR, FortiPenTest, FortiPhish, FortiPoint, FortiPolicy, FortiPortal, FortiPresence, FortiProxy, FortiRecon, FortiRecorder, FortiSASE, FortiSDNConnector, FortiSEC, FortiSIEM, FortiSMS, FortiSOAR, FortiStack, FortiSwitch, FortiTester, FortiToken, FortiTrust, FortiVoice, FortiWAN, FortiWeb, FortiWiFi, FortiWLC, FortiWLM and FortiXDR. Other trademarks belong to their respective owners. Fortinet has not independently verified statements or certifications herein attributed to third parties and Fortinet does not independently endorse such statements. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary herein, nothing herein constitutes a warranty, guarantee, contract, binding specification or other binding commitment by Fortinet or any indication of intent related to a binding commitment, and performance and other specification information herein may be unique to certain environments.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Exterro Expands Leadership Team to Accelerate Growth in the Data Risk Management Market

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PORTLAND, Ore., Nov. 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Exterro, Inc., the leading provider of data risk management software, today announced it continues to build its world-class executive team with the appointments of Jim Cox as Chief Revenue Officer and John Vincenzo as Chief Marketing Officer. These strategic hires are critical additions to the management team as it focuses on rapidly scaling the company to capitalize on the fast-growing market.

    “I’m incredibly excited to welcome both Jim and John to Exterro as we build an industry-leading go to market team to complement our award-winning product and innovation engine,” said Exterro Founder and CEO Bobby Balachandran. “John and Jim have a history of creating highly efficient and productive teams that exceed expectations. We will continue to invest in a customer-centric approach to both technology and our go to market teams. We’re primed to accelerate our growth and fully leverage our internal and partner resources to ensure we capitalize on the great momentum we’ve built.”

    A successful, dynamic, sales leader, Jim has more than 20 years of experience driving exceptional growth by building sales teams that focus on execution and cultivating outstanding partnerships. During more than a decade in cybersecurity, Jim built a network of CISOs and executive relationships that, while at Proofpoint, helped the organization scale from $100M to $1.4B in just over six years.

    As CRO at Exterro, one key area will be the increased focus and expansion of the company’s partner programs.“The time is now for Exterro to seize this substantial market opportunity,” stated Cox. “We offer the only platform that offers legal teams, cybersecurity professionals, and C-level leaders an integrated solution to e-discovery, digital forensics, cybersecurity compliance, and data privacy, governance, and security challenges. I’m excited about our ability to accelerate growth by expanding platform sales, to not only the market but to the extensive list of customers we have.”

    John Vincenzo has led both public and private technology companies’ marketing teams and helped them take their go-to-market efforts to new heights. He has spent the last 25+ years in technology industries, most recently with cybersecurity companies such as the privately held Nozomi Networks; Silver Peak (acquired by HPE/Aruba Networks) in the software-defined wide area networking (SD-WAN) space; and global networking leader 3Com (acquired by HP). In each instance, he has helped increase overall awareness and drive revenue growth.

    As CMO, Vincenzo will be responsible for increasing the visibility of the company so it matches the success the company is seeing in the market. He will also help accelerate revenue growth by working closely with the Sales teams as well as the Exterro Partner ecosystem.

    “Exterro may be the best kept secret in the industry and we need to change that,” added Vincenzo. “It’s amazing the growth and level of technology innovation the company has already achieved. I’m excited about the opportunity to tell our story to the world and help customers understand the value and return on their investment they can achieve by leveraging the Exterro data risk management platform. No company helps organizations better protect data, minimize risk and ensure safer digital environments than Exterro, and we will make it our mission to put a spotlight on our role in making the world a safer place.”

    Exterro has taken a holistic and integrated approach to data risk since its inception and is the first and only company to use an AI-powered technology platform to assess and mitigate data risks in a comprehensive and integrated manner. The more we learn about data risks–posed by privacy regulations, litigation, data breaches and cybersecurity incidents, data governance and compliance challenges–the more we recognize they cannot be comprehended in isolation. They are interconnected and interdependent, and must be assessed and addressed holistically with a unified data risk management platform.

    About Exterro, Inc.

    Exterro empowers organizations and law enforcement agencies to achieve better legal, regulatory, and investigatory outcomes, while saving money and minimizing the impact of data risk. Its data risk management software is the only comprehensive platform that leverages data discovery, automation, and workflow optimization, and one of the first to utilize responsible AI to give users insight into and control over the complex interconnections of privacy, legal operations, digital investigations, cybersecurity response, compliance, and data governance. Thousands of corporations, law firms, managed services providers, and government and law enforcement agencies trust Exterro to manage their risks and drive successful outcomes at a lower cost. For more information, visit www.exterro.com.

    Press inquiries:

    Hazel Ramirez

    570-975-9261

    hazel@plat4orm.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Pax8 Unveils Pax8 Voyager Alliance: The Partner Marketplace Experience

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DENVER, Nov. 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Pax8, the leading cloud commerce marketplace, today announced Pax8 Voyager Alliance, its new partner program that provides global partners with a modern approach to achieving success. Fueled by innovation and investment, the program is tailored to meet partners’ specific needs and provides a scalable, strategic growth path. Through elevated enablement, education, and support, Pax8 Voyager Alliance empowers partners to thrive at every stage of their journey.

    “Pax8 Voyager Alliance represents our commitment to putting partners first and recognizing their unique journey to success,” said Craig Donovan, Chief Experience Officer at Pax8. “The intentionally designed program provides our partners with the competitive advantage to accelerate their growth and succeed in the evolving channel. This advancement lays the foundation for an exciting new chapter, and we will introduce a Pax8 Rewards program and additional benefits over the coming months, empowering our partners to scale to new heights.”

    Pax8 Voyager Alliance is built entirely around the partner Marketplace experience and introduces partners to a tiered model. This approach provides differentiated experiences thoughtfully curated to match their unique business needs and size. As partners reach higher levels in the program, they’ll unlock new benefits that elevate their experience and fuel their growth.

    Pax8 will continue to roll out exciting new opportunities for Pax8 partners to take advantage of as they rise through the program tiers to earn new benefits. Some early benefits include curated event experiences and tiered pricing for professional services projects, which will help partners manage costs. Partners can also expect to receive higher levels of technical support as they advance through the program. In addition, Pax8 Voyager Alliance introduces flexible payment options, offering multiple solutions dependent on a partner’s tier to aid in making financial business decisions.

    Future program benefits will include Pax8 Voyager Alliance Rewards. Partners will be able to accrue points that can be used to invest back into their business by applying them to Pax8 services, education and Pax8 Marketplace purchases.

    “Next year, we will introduce enhancements to Voyager Alliance that revolutionize partner rewards in the SMB cloud marketplace,” said Donovan. “We have tremendous loyalty within our partner base, and we’re excited to launch industry-changing rewards that acknowledge their Marketplace investment. Just as enterprise cloud providers have successfully driven growth through consumption-based incentives, we’re bringing that powerful model to the Pax8 Marketplace. By recognizing our partners’ historical and ongoing Marketplace spend, we’re creating a compelling ecosystem that helps MSPs accelerate their cloud journey and maximize their return on investment with Pax8.”

    “Cloud marketplace growth is expected to exceed $45 billion by 2025, driven by various service partners within the channel ecosystem,” said Jay McBain, Chief Analyst at Canalys. “Adopting a tiered model that provides a more curated experience is critical to enabling these varying partners and their goals. With its new program, Pax8 establishes the foundation to effectively support partners at scale and guide them on their path to success.”

    In addition to the Marketplace of the future, Pax8 Voyager Alliance provides access to the following benefits:   

    Pax8 enablement

    • 100+ award-winning Pax8 Academy on-demand courses 
    • Industry-leading partner support
    • Pax8 Academy instructor-led courses 
    • Pax8 Professional Services 
    • Pax8 Academy Peer Groups 
    • Pax8 Academy Business Coaching

    Pax8 events 

    • Learning journeys 
    • Pax8 Launch Briefings 
    • Pax8 Mission Briefings 
    • Pax8 Bootcamps 
    • Pax8 Momentum 
    • Curated event experiences

    “I love Pax8 Voyager Alliance, and it’s a much-needed program,” said Natalia Scheidegger, CEO at 3rdmill, a Sydney, Australia-based MSP. “With the transparency it provides, you can see exactly where you fit, the resources available, and the benefits you’ll unlock at the next tier. We’re excited to strengthen our relationship with Pax8 and continue growing together.”

    To learn more about Pax8 Voyager Alliance, please visit pax8.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 38,000 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 BlogFacebookLinkedInX, and YouTube

    Media Contact:
    Kristen Beatty
    Sr. Director of Public Relations
    kbeatty@pax8.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Altus Group Recognized as Top 10 Data & Analytics Team in 2024 OnCon Icon Awards

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, Nov. 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Altus Group Limited (“Altus”) (TSX: AIF), a leading provider of asset and fund intelligence for commercial real estate (“CRE”), is pleased to announce that its technology team has been selected as a Top 10 Data and Analytics Team in the esteemed 2024 OnCon Icon Awards.

    The OnCon Icon Awards program recognizes and celebrates the outstanding achievements of leading organizations and teams worldwide, determined through peer and community voting. Voters select teams that have made a significant impact on their organization or the broader industry, contributed to their professional community through thought leadership, driven innovation, and demonstrated outstanding leadership.

    Altus’ data and analytics solutions are leveraged by many of the world’s leading CRE companies to uncover opportunities, identify risks, understand portfolio impacts, and enhance asset and portfolio performance. With one of the industry’s most comprehensive and unified data platforms, Altus is leveraging its extensive dataset to provide new performance insights to its customers. A recent innovation stemming from this platform is the new ARGUS Intelligence product, which provides performance insights to help transform the way investors model, monitor and manage their assets and portfolios.

    “It’s a tremendous honour for our technology organization to be recognized in the 2024 OnCon Icon Awards,” said David Ross, Chief Technology Officer at Altus. “This achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our exceptional team and their relentless pursuit of innovation and excellence. Together, we’re fulfilling our mission of leading CRE intelligence through innovative advanced analytics capabilities.”

    For more information about the OnCon Icon Awards and to view the full list of winners, please click here.

    About Altus Group

    Altus Group is a leading provider of asset and fund intelligence for commercial real estate. We deliver intelligence as a service to our global client base through a connected platform of industry-leading technology, advanced analytics, and advisory services. Trusted by the largest CRE leaders, our capabilities help commercial real estate investors, developers, proprietors, lenders, and advisors manage risks and improve performance returns throughout the asset and fund lifecycle. Altus Group is a global company headquartered in Toronto with approximately 2,900 employees across North America, EMEA and Asia Pacific. For more information about Altus Group (TSX: AIF) please visit altusgroup.com.

    FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:

    Elizabeth Lambe
    Director, Global Communications, Altus Group
    (416) 641-9787
    Elizabeth.Lambe@altusgroup.com

    The MIL Network