NewzIntel.com

Category: Machine Learning

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Notice on Rotating Chair Tenure Sep 30, 2024

    Source: Huawei

    Headline: Notice on Rotating Chair Tenure
    Sep 30, 2024

    In accordance with Huawei’s Rotating Chair system, Ms. Sabrina Meng will assume the position of Rotating and Acting Chair of Huawei from October 1, 2024 to March 31, 2025. During her term, Ms. Meng will serve in the company’s top leadership position and head the Board of Directors and its Executive Committee.
    Sabrina Meng’s Bio

    Ms. Meng holds a master’s degree from Huazhong University of Science and Technology. Ms. Meng joined Huawei in 1993 and has held positions including Director of the International Accounting Dept, CFO of Huawei Hong Kong, and President of the Accounting Mgmt Dept. Ms. Meng now serves as Deputy Chairwoman of the Board, and Rotating Chairwoman and CFO of Huawei.
    Since 2003, Ms. Meng has led the establishment of Huawei’s globally unified finance organizational structure, processes, regulations, and IT platforms. From 2007 to 2014, Ms. Meng implemented the Integrated Financial Services (IFS) Transformation Program across the company around the world, making fine-grained management part of Huawei’s DNA for sustainable growth.
    In 2014, Ms. Meng led the company’s data transformation and established a comprehensive data management system, creating a single source for data and making data a strategic asset of the company. During the same period, Ms. Meng implemented transformation programs for Internal Controls over Financial Reporting (ICFR), Consistency of Inventory Accounts and Goods (CIAG), treasury management, and tax management. This has transformed the finance team into a business partner and value integrator, and supported the rapid and stable development of the company’s business worldwide.
    Since 2019, Ms. Meng has developed a blueprint for the digital transformation of finance based on the company’s strategic vision and long-term development plan. She has led the development of key risk indicators and risk control models, making contactless risk controls a reality at Huawei. She has guided the establishment of an agile operations management system which has facilitated intelligent operations management and decision-making based on data and AI algorithms. She has also guided the establishment of an integrated management platform for key financial operations scenarios, to achieve collaborative operations and matrix management based on data sharing and real-time interactions.
    Under Ms. Meng’s leadership, Huawei has established a world-leading digital and intelligent finance organization, laying a solid foundation for the company’s operations and supporting the company’s efforts to realize its strategies in the new era.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Telecommunications – Industry growth and rising energy demand put pressure on tech sector sustainability efforts

    Source: The International Telecommunication Union

    Cutting value-chain emissions could be key to reducing carbon footprints to net zero, ITU-WBA report shows.

    Geneva, 30 September 2024 – The carbon footprint of the digital technology sector is growing to keep pace with global demand for hardware, network services, data storage and emerging technologies, according to a report co-authored by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the World Benchmarking Alliance (WBA).  

    Alongside commitments expressed across industry to embrace both digital growth and environmental sustainability, the report reveals an overall decline in progress towards climate goals. Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and energy consumption in the global tech sector have increased, while transparency and accountability remain a challenge.

    Greening Digital Companies 2024 offers insights and best practices to help tech companies worldwide accelerate their emissions reductions, achieve low-carbon operations, and improve climate reporting.

    “An effective green transition needs digital companies to drive progress and lead by example,” said ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin. “This report is an important tool for understanding where to focus efforts to maximize digital technology’s immense potential to advance sustainability in the face of climate change for the digital future we want. The report’s findings formulate a clear call for action for leaders gathering at the Green Digital Action meeting at COP29’s landmark Digitalisation Day.”

    Balancing benefits and costs

    Digital technologies offer numerous socio-economic benefits and can accelerate progress on the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

    Tech can enhance weather predictions and climate-change monitoring, optimize energy use, and help integrate low-emission technologies.

    But to advance sustainable development, industry must monitor and address its own environmental challenges, including carbon emissions, energy and water consumption, e-waste, and raw-material depletion.

    Greening Digital Companies 2024 evaluates the greenhouse gas emissions and energy use of 200 leading digital companies around the world.

    Of the 200 companies covered in the report, 148 reported electricity consumption totaling 518 terawatt-hours (TWh) in 2022, about 1.9 per cent of the world total. The 10 companies with the highest consumption levels – all headquartered in East Asia or the United States – consumed 51 per cent of this total, 9 per cent higher than in 2021.

    Assessing the corporate value chain

    The report’s 2024 edition provides the first comprehensive overview of corporate value-chain emissions. Often referred to as “Scope 3,” these make up most of the emission footprints of digital companies.

    Scope 3 emissions include everything from material suppliers and outsourced device production to the use of a company’s end-products by consumers. Such end-products range from cell phones and computers to search engines and AI chatbots.

    On average, these emissions are six times greater than the combined Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions that a company produces itself or is responsible for indirectly, according to the report.

    Many companies struggle to accurately calculate and attribute their Scope 3 emissions, with common challenges including lack of data from suppliers, double counting, and inconsistent application of emission-allocation principles.

    “Digital companies need to do their part in the fight against climate change,” said Lourdes O. Montenegro, Director of Research and Digitisation at the World Benchmarking Alliance. “This report uniquely offers evidence-based insights on the sector’s state of play. We are bringing these data and insights to the attention of the international community to help ensure that the impact on people and planet is consequential to success in business.”

    Managing emissions from emerging technologies

    The rapid growth of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies will further strain energy resources and keep adding to emissions, the report makes clear.

    The report also notes the contributions that AI and other transformative technologies can make to support sustainable development.

    To help digital companies meet sustainability goals, Greening Digital Companies 2024 underscores the role of governments in implementing monitoring frameworks and accelerating the availability of green energy.

    “From the development point of view, it is increasingly important for industry players to more closely monitor their own greenhouse gas emissions and act to reduce emissions and energy use,” said Cosmas Zavazava, Director of the ITU’s Telecommunication Development Bureau.

    “GHG impacts can be devastating and include extreme and changing weather patterns and rising sea levels. If left unchecked, climate change will undo part of the development progress of the past. Governments can support the tech industry’s efforts to balance innovation with sustainability, fostering a twin transition towards digital growth and environmental responsibility.”

    Liberalizing energy markets, reducing red tape for permitting, modernizing power grids, and investing in energy storage are all ways that governments can support industry sustainability efforts. Renewable energy investment is also critical.

    Research and analysis to support green digital action

    Greening Digital Companies 2024 reflects ITU’s wider push for effective climate action across the global tech industry.

    ITU, the UN Agency for Digital Technologies, urges the industry to take responsibility for its own emissions; helps develop and promote technical standards to cut emissions in line with global climate goals; and encourages industry partners worldwide to support ITU’s Green Digital Action, aiming to strengthen the contribution of digital technologies to climate and environmental action.

    Notes:

    Advance interviews under the embargo are available.

    The full report is available for media preview at https://bit.ly/4gAdZYI

    The report will be launched Monday 30 September during the ITU-WBA webinar: “Greening Digital Companies 2024: Monitoring emissions and climate commitments,” taking place in two sessions to accommodate different world regions:

    Session One: 9:00 – 10:15 CEST / Session Two: 18:00 – 19:15 CEST

    To register: http://www.itu.int/go/gdc-24

    The upcoming UN Climate Conference in Baku, Azerbaijan (COP29) will host the first Digitalisation Day at a COP, shining a spotlight on the growing opportunities and challenges posed by increasing digitalisation. This will include the inaugural high-level meeting on digitalisation at a COP.

    Resources and background information:

    • Virtual launch event of the Greening Digital Companies 2024 report, 30 September 2024
    • Greening Digital Companies 2024: Monitoring Emissions and Climate Commitments
    • Greening Digital Companies 2023: Monitoring Emissions and Climate Commitments
    • Greening Digital Companies 2022: Monitoring Emissions and Climate Commitments.

    International Telecommunication Union (ITU)

    About ITU

    The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is the United Nations specialized agency for information and communication technologies (ICTs), driving innovation in ICTs together with 194 Member States and a membership of over 1,000 companies, universities, and international and regional organizations. Established in 1865, it is the intergovernmental body responsible for coordinating the shared global use of the radio spectrum, promoting international cooperation in assigning satellite orbits, improving communication infrastructure in the developing world, and establishing the worldwide standards that foster seamless interconnection of a vast range of communications systems. From broadband networks to cutting-edge wireless technologies, aeronautical and maritime navigation, radio astronomy, oceanographic and satellite-based earth monitoring as well as converging fixed-mobile phone, Internet and broadcasting technologies, ITU is committed to connecting the world.

    Learn more: http://www.itu.int

    About WBA

    The World Benchmarking Alliance (WBA) is a non-profit organization that assesses and ranks the performance of the world’s most influential companies on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Data in this report were collected as part of the WBA Digital Inclusion Benchmark, which assesses the world’s leading technology companies on their performance in enhancing access to digital technologies, improving digital skills, fostering trustworthy use, and innovating openly, inclusively and ethically. In addition, WBA produces the Climate and Energy Benchmark, which measures corporate progress against the Paris Agreement and covers 450 of the world’s most influential companies in high-emitting sectors such as the automotive, utilities, oil, gas and transport industries.

    Learn more: https://www.worldbenchmarkingalliance.org/ 

    Appendices

    Greening Digital Companies 2024 report: a focus on Scope 3 emissions

    The Greening Digital Companies 2024 report provides the first comprehensive overview of corporate supply chain, or Scope 3, emissions, which are roughly six times Scope 1 and 2 emissions combined.

    Scope 3 emissions are indirect emissions from a company’s upstream and downstream activities, such as outsourced suppliers in information and communication technologies (ICTs) manufacturing and emissions from the use of products like computers and smartphones.

    By definition, Scope 3 emissions are outside the company’s direct control. But firms can exert important influence through their choice of suppliers, on the one hand, and the energy efficiency of their products and services, on the other.

    Scope 3 reporting, however, is beset by a lack of data from suppliers and transparency. A total of 75 of the 200 companies provide relevant data across all 15 categories, ranging from purchased goods/services, upstream transportation and distribution, waste generated in operations, to business travel, use of sold products, and downstream leased assets. But most fall short in their reporting.

    “Despite an abundance of guidance, the majority of digital companies do not calculate a full Scope 3 emissions inventory,” said the report. “This makes it impossible to assess progress in reducing emissions across their value chain.

    While 103 digital companies covered in this report have submitted an emissions reduction target to SBTi, only 73, just over one-third, have a Scope 3 target.

    By the numbers:

    ASSESSMENT: DISCLOSURE, TARGETS, PERFORMANCE

    • The Greening Digital Companies report assesses companies on their data disclosure, targets and performance.

    • Only three of 200 digital companies scored 90% or higher (Apple, Logitech, Telefonica).

    • 26 companies scored 75% or higher (see figure below), up four from the assessment in the 2023 edition of the report.

    • Only 70 companies had at least a “passing grade” of 50%, and 27 scored zero.

    • The top 26 performers are all headquartered in Europe or the US

    SCOPE 1 & 2: OPERATIONAL EMISSIONS

    ● 166 companies reported emissions totaling 293 million tCO2e in 2022, amounting to 0.8% of global emissions from energy use and 12% more than in 2021.

    ● Top 10 emitting companies – all in the US or East Asia – accounted for 55%of the total, with all but one reporting increased operational emissions in 2022.

    ● The Science Based Target initiative (SBTi) has not validated the emissions reduction target of any top ten emitters as aligned with the Paris Agreement 1.5°C target.

    ELECTRICITY & RENEWABLE ENERGY

    ● 2022 electricity consumption for the 148 companies providing data topped 500 terawatt-hours (TWh), 1.9% of the global total.

    ● The top ten – all headquartered in East Asia and the US – consumed 51% of the total, 9% more than in 2021.

    ● The top four corporate purchasers of renewable energy globally in 2022 were digital companies: Amazon, Meta, Alphabet and Microsoft (see figure below).

    ● Sixteen companies reported sourcing 100% renewable electricity (see figure below). Four of which – Alphabet, Amazon, Microsoft and Deutsche Telekom – highlight that despite purchasing renewable electricity, it is not always available where their data centres are located or the electricity grid was not always supplying them.

    ● Four top ten companies consuming electricity in 2022– Alphabet, Amazon, Microsoft and Deutsche Telekom – purchased 100% renewable energy, but it has not always been available where needed.

    ● Samsung and TSMC have committed to 100% renewable electricity, but not before 2050 and 2040 respectively.

    ● None of the three Chinese telecom operators in the top ten electricity consumers have made commitments towards 100% renewable electricity.

    TARGETS VALIDATED BY THE SCIENCE BASED TARGETS INITIATIVE (SBTi)

    ● 104 (out of 200) digital companies have submitted Scope 1 & 2 emissions reduction targets to the SBTi, of which 69 have been validated.

    ● Of the 69 validated targets: 45 companies are on track, 13 are not on track, and 11 have seen emissions rise.

    ● Validated targets account for 19% of the 200 companies’ total emissions (56 million tCO2e).

    ● 81% of the 294 million tCO2e of total operational emissions are not covered by an SBTi target.

    SCOPE 3: CORPORATE VALUE CHAIN EMISSIONS

    ● Among companies that report all relevant Scope 3 emissions, Scope 1 accounts for 4%, Scope 2 for 15% and Scope 3 for 81%. Scope 3 emissions are on average 6 times greater than Scope 1 and 2 combined (see figure below).

    ● Only 75 of 200 companies provided a complete Scope 3 inventory despite it accounting for most digital company emissions.

    AI & DATA CENTERS

    • Generating responses to Chatbot queries (“inference”) accounts for up to 90% of total machine learning cloud computing costs according to research by Amazon Web Services.

    • A ChatGPT inquiry needs almost ten times as much electricity to process as a standard web search.

    • Data centers consumed about 460 TWh of electricity in 2022, a figure which is projected to increase 35% to 100% by 2026. At the upper end of this range, this demand is roughly equivalent to the electricity consumption in Japan.

    • Large cloud providers are experiencing rapid growth in energy use and consequent emissions. Alphabet, Amazon and Microsoft operational GHG emissions are up 62% from 2020 reaching 47 million metric tons in 2023 (see figure below). Electricity use has grown even faster, up 78% over the same period and standing at just over 100 TWh in 2023, around what the entire country of the Philippines uses in a year. The trio have made huge investments to decarbonize their operations: they all procure 100% renewable electricity and they were three of the top four corporate purchasers of green energy in 2022.

    • Given the uncertainty surrounding the climate impacts of AI, it will be important for energy usage and GHG emissions to be included as key metrics when evaluating AI models.

    ADDITIONAL NUMBERS

    ● The number of global Internet users has doubled since 2010, and data traffic has expanded 25-fold

    ● E-waste increased 82% from 2010 to 2022, and on current trends will reach 82 million metric tonnes by 2030, equivalent to nearly 8 kg of e-waste per person every year according to the Global E-waste Monitor 2024.

    The International Telecommunication Union: http://www.itu.int
    World Benchmarking Alliance: worldbenchmarkingalliance.org

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: 21 startups transforming education with AI

    Source: Google

    Picture a world where students, regardless of their background, can learn in a personalized way. Imagine teachers with tools that anticipate their needs, freeing them to focus on what they do best: inspiring and guiding their class. This isn’t a distant dream, but a reality being shaped by entrepreneurs in the Google for Startups Growth Academy: AI for Education program.

    Selected from a pool of more than 600 applicants from across Europe, Africa and the Middle East, the 21 participating startups are all using AI to create more inclusive, engaging and effective educational pathways. From building intelligent tutors that adapt to each student’s pace, to platforms that make education accessible even in remote areas, we can’t wait to see the impact they’ll have on learners around the world.

    Each founder and their team will receive three months of mentorship by Google experts, resources to help grow their technology, business and global reach, and a collaborative community of fellow founders to support one another. Learn more about the Google for Startups Growth Academy: AI for Education cohort:

    • Angaza Elimu (Kenya): An eLearning platform that creates a more personalized and engaging experience, fostering stronger connections between learners and teachers.
    • BLISKO (Poland): An AI-powered platform that personalizes learning for children ages 0-6, that focuses on building strong relationships and creating personalized learning plans that fit each child’s unique needs, abilities and interests
    • Complori (Germany): A hybrid learning platform that equips children, ages 7-16, with hard skills such as technological understanding and programming, and soft skills through live and online group lessons.
    • Correcto (Spain): An AI-powered platform that enhances Spanish writing skills, offering tools tailored for Spanish-speaking users.
    • Digify Africa (South Africa): A high-tech learning platform, delivered via a low-tech interface, that improves access to education for low-income learners.
    • eKidz (Germany): An app that makes acquiring literacy and a new language easy and accessible for every child. Utilizing a purpose-built AI voice recognition students with precise diagnostics and support.
    • EvidenceB (France): An AI tutoring platform that works for any subject, available as a subscription service. Teachers get helpful data insights to guide their instruction.
    • ExamSolutions (UK): An AI-powered tutoring platform combining visual, auditory and textual content tailored for learning and exam preparation for math at GCSE & A-level.
    • Hawkings Education (Spain): An AI online learning system, making the experience more personalized for students and giving teachers better tools.
    • Jotit (Israel): A first of its kind, turning any standard Chromebook or tablet into an all-in-one learning space, creating a focused, distraction-free environment which keeps handwriting at its core.
    • LearnWise AI (Netherlands): A platform empowering universities and colleges worldwide to revolutionize student support through custom AI assistants.
    • MOONHUB (UK): A VR training platform that allows people to train like they were on the job from anywhere, any time to assess how people react to their observed virtual worlds.
    • Optima (UAE): An AI-powered education platform and course creation engine with a focus on data and AI engineering skills. Optima’s approach combines live interactive sessions, self-paced learning and AI-assisted tutoring.
    • OpenCyberAI (United Kingdom): An educational platform dedicated to cybersecurity, offering virtual simulations through interactive training, powered by an AI personalizing your learning path.
    • Pandatron (Finland): A platform supports talent development and helps employees adapt to digital and cultural changes by using AI-powered coaching conversations to identify underlying issues within the organization.
    • SignLab (Norway): An AI sign language digital platform that makes learning more accessible, effective, and affordable.
    • Story Spark (United Kingdom): An AI-powered story generator and reading platform for children combining innovative literacy education with engaging and personalized content.
    • ubiMaster (Germany): A live, personal online tutor platform designed to make learning with experts easy and widely available.
    • Utiva Education (Nigeria): A tech platform that helps people in Africa learn skills needed for global jobs, enabling companies to hire talent across different regions and increasing employment in the region.
    • Wilco (Israel): A platform helping both businesses and software vendors easily provide high-end training and education materials for their employees, candidates or users.
    • Wiloki (France): An online tutoring platform for children ages 7-14, using AI-powered tools to personalize the learning path according to each child’s unique educational profile and motivational triggers.

    As we continue to explore the possibilities of AI in education, one thing is certain: The path towards more personalized, effective and inspiring learning experiences has just begun.

    Learn more about our selected startups at startup.google.com.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI: Interim Results for the six months ended 30 June 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CAMBRIDGE, United Kingdom, Sept. 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bango (AIM: BGO), today announces its interim results for the six months ended 30 June 2024.

    Financial Overview (unaudited):

    Results for the 6 months ended 30 June 2024  1H24 1H23 Change
           
    Total Revenue $24.1M $20.3M +18.6%  
             
    Transactional Revenue1 $16.4M $15.5M +5.3%  
             
    DVM, Audiences & One-Off2 $ 7.7M $ 4.7M +62.5%  
             
    Annual recurring revenue (ARR)3 $12.9M $5.6M +130.4%  
           
    Net Revenue Retention4 159%      
             
    Adjusted EBITDA5 $4.0M ($0.2M) +$4.2M
           
    Profit/(Loss) before taxation ($3.4M) ($4.9M) +$1.5M
           
    Net (Debt6)/Cash ($5.1M) $5.5M -$10.6M


    Notes:

    • Transactional revenue grew 9.4% on a constant currency basis.
    • Other Income of $1.4M, which is not included in the revenue figure above, related to recovery of tax costs from the acquisition of DOCOMO Digital. $1.1M will be accounted for as a tax cost, resulting in $0.3M profit.
    • Gross profit margin of 80.8% (1H23: 90.0%) reduced from 82.8% in 2H 2023 due to geographic mix. Improvements expected in 2H 2024 as high margin DVM revenue grows.
    • Net debt6 of $5.1M at 30 June 2024 (net debt of $3.9M at 31 Dec 2023) after R&D investment of $7.6M in the period.

    Operational Highlights

    • Bango signed 4 new Digital Vending Machine® (DVM) customers in 1H24, including a Bank in Brazil. Post-period there has been a further 3 new customer wins.
    • A leading European telco that adopted the DVM in 2020 extended their contract for a further 3 years, with a minimum contract value of $1.5M over the term.
    • 13 new subscription content providers were added to the DVM in 1H24, taking the total to 106.
    • The eDisti7 program now has 20 content providers, including Microsoft and Disney, allowing Bango to provide a ‘pre-stocked’ Digital Vending Machine, reducing time to revenue for both DVM customers and Bango.
    • Bango signed a global agreement with Uber to accelerate the take-up of Uber One subscriptions through telco channels, proving the appeal of the Bango DVM beyond digital video, music and gaming services.
    • The ‘global technology leader’ (announced in June 2022) launched its first two telcos with Bango in 1H24. Additional launches are underway.
    • Chartered Accountant Tony Perkins joined the Bango Board as a Non-Executive Director and Chair of the Audit Committee. In Q3, Tony was appointed as Senior Independent Director replacing Eric Peacock who retired from the Board to focus on his recovery from an accident.

    Presentation and Webcast

    A presentation of the interim results will be made to investors and analysts at 10:00 BST today via the Investor Meet Company Platform. Those wishing to join the call can sign up to Investor Meet Company for free via:
    https://www.investormeetcompany.com/bango-plc/register-investor

    Full RNS announcement

    Read the full Interims Results RNS announcement here: https://polaris.brighterir.com/public/bango_plc/news/rns/story/r7ze9jw

    Paul Larbey, Chief Executive Officer of Bango, commented:

    “The first six months of 2024 have gone to plan and are in-line with the Trading Update issued in July. The payments business continues to deliver growth, providing cash to fund expansion of the Digital Vending Machine® (DVM), which continues to be adopted as the defacto standard platform for subscription bundling by the world’s largest companies. The addition of Disney+ to the Bango eDisti program is further evidence of this and will help accelerate time-to-revenue from DVM deals. With 4 new DVM wins in the 1H and a further 3 in Q3, the pipeline built over the past years continued to deliver results and provides confidence in meeting market expectations for the full year.

    The subscriptions market is vast and growing, and the percentage of subscriptions bundled through channels is increasing. Bango’s leadership position in this market is strengthening with the DVM now playing a key role in the customer acquisition and engagement strategies of major content brands. We are excited by the opportunity ahead and remain on track to continue our strong growth trajectory and return to a positive net cash position in FY25.”

    1 Transactional Revenue is revenue derived by charging a percentage of the retail price paid by the consumer and is made up of direct carrier billing, resale and revenue share amounts.
    2 DVM, Bango Audiences & one-off Revenue includes all DVM license and support fees, revenue from Bango Audiences (discontinued in Q1) and one-off fees including DVM set-up and change requests.
    3 Annual Recurring Revenue is the expected annual revenues to be generated in the next 12 months based on contracted revenues recognized as at 30 June 2024.
    4 Net Revenue Retention is a measure of the retention and expansion of revenue from customers over the previous 12 months and is calculated by dividing the ARR from existing customers at the end of 1H24 to the ARR from those same customers at the end of 1H23.
    5 Adjusted EBITDA is earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, amortization, negative goodwill, exceptional items, share of net loss of associate and share based payment charge 
    6 Net debt is cash and cash equivalents plus short-term investments less the loan from NHN and borrowings. Barclays continues to provide an overdraft facility which was not used at the end of the period .
    7eDisti is a program that allows Bango to resell subscriptions from content providers removing the need for a commercial agreement between the DVM customer and the content provider.

    Contact Details:  
    investors@bango.com

    About Bango

    Bango enables content providers to reach more paying customers through global partnerships. Bango revolutionized the monetization of digital content and services, by opening-up online payments to mobile phone users worldwide. Today, the Digital Vending Machine® is driving the rapid growth of the subscriptions economy, powering choice and control for subscribers.

    The world’s largest content providers, including Amazon, Google and Microsoft trust Bango technology to reach subscribers everywhere.

    Bango, where people subscribe. For more information, visit http://www.bangoinvestor.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: AIIB, Uzbekistan Cement Long-Term Partnership With Landmark Agreements at 9th AIIB Annual Meeting

    Source: Asia Infrastructure Investment Bank

    The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) further solidified its long-standing partnership with the Republic of Uzbekistan through a series of agreements signed in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, at the Bank’s 9th Annual Meeting, its first in Central Asia.

    The agreements follow the signing of a three-year rolling pipeline for sovereign-backed financed projects by Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and AIIB President Jin Liqun in Beijing. This strategic partnership established a solid foundation for the current agreements, aimed at supporting Uzbekistan’s sustainable development goals.

    At the Annual Meeting, the Bank and the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) signed an agreement for a USD8.8 million contribution to support the Karakalpakstan and Khorezm Water Supply and Sanitation Project. This critical initiative aims to improve water resource management, sanitation services and flood risk management in some of Uzbekistan’s most water-stressed regions. The project aligns with AIIB’s green infrastructure and technology-enabled Infrastructure thematic priorities and is a key step in advancing Uzbekistan’s long-term goals for climate resilience and water security.

    Following this, AIIB signed a pivotal loan agreement with Asakabank, marking AIIB’s inaugural partnership with the financial institution. The RMB-denominated loan will expand Asakabank’s portfolio in renewable energy and energy efficiency and provide much-needed financial support for green investments. This agreement is a critical part of Uzbekistan’s energy transition strategy and highlights AIIB’s role in fostering climate-resilient infrastructure development across Central Asia.

    Building on this momentum, AIIB signed a mandate letter with SQB (formerly Sanoat Qurilish Bank) to promote sustainable energy projects. This partnership will provide longer-tenor funding than typically available in the market, equipping SQB to finance renewable energy projects and furthering AIIB’s contribution to Uzbekistan’s clean energy goals. The agreement strengthens the relationship that began with the signing of a letter of intent in January 2024.

    Finally, AIIB signed a grant agreement to expand and modernize the country’s public education infrastructure, which marked AIIB’s first project in Uzbekistan’s education sector. This project addresses the pressing need for additional classroom capacity and focuses on building new schools, renovating existing ones and introducing modern educational tools and technology. This initiative has special emphasis on gender inclusion, digital technology and climate resilience, and will ensure that Uzbekistan’s youth are well-equipped to meet the demands of the future.

    “The three-year rolling pipeline agreement between President Mirziyoyev and President Jin established a strategic framework for aligning Uzbekistan’s development goals with AIIB’s expertise and resources,” said Konstantin Limitovskiy, AIIB Vice President for Investment Clients Region 2 and Project and Corporate Finance, Global. “The agreements signed during the Annual Meeting further underscore AIIB’s commitment to advancing impactful, long-term projects that foster prosperity, resilience and sustainable growth in Uzbekistan.”

    “The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank has been a long-standing partner of Uzbekistan, supporting our country in its pursuit of sustainable infrastructure and investment development, improving living conditions for people, and achieving the goals of the Strategy 2030,” said Laziz Kudratov, Uzbekistan’s Minister of Investment, Industry, and Trade and Governor for Uzbekistan at the AIIB. “The signing of the grant agreement for the project on the modernization and expansion of school infrastructure is another significant step on this path, supported by AIIB and our other partners.”

    AIIB’s continued investments in green infrastructure, renewable energy, education and water management demonstrate the Bank’s commitment to supporting Uzbekistan’s Sustainable Development Strategy: Vision 2030, which aims to alleviate poverty, promote inclusive growth and enhance resilience to global challenges. As AIIB and Uzbekistan continue to deepen their cooperation, these projects will serve as key drivers of the nation’s green transformation, promoting economic resilience and improving the quality of life for its citizens.

    About AIIB

    The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) is a multilateral development bank whose mission is Financing Infrastructure for Tomorrow in Asia and beyond—infrastructure with sustainability at its core. We began operations in Beijing in 2016 and have since grown to 110 approved members worldwide. We are capitalized at USD100 billion and AAA-rated by the major international credit rating agencies. Collaborating with partners, AIIB meets clients’ needs by unlocking new capital and investing in infrastructure that is green, technology-enabled and promotes regional connectivity.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI: Medallion Bank Announces Fintech Strategic Partnership With Kashable

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SALT LAKE CITY, Sept. 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Medallion Bank (Nasdaq: MBNKP), an FDIC-insured bank specializing in consumer loans for the purchase of recreational vehicles, boats, and home improvements, as well as loan products and services offered through fintech strategic partners, today announced a strategic partnership with Kashable, a leading fintech company dedicated to providing socially responsible credit and financial wellness solutions. This collaboration builds on Medallion Bank’s existing nationwide financing footprint while expanding Kashable’s services to a broader audience, offering working Americans access to affordable personal loans.

    “Adding Kashable to our growing strategic partnership program expands Medallion Bank’s consumer finance reach while supporting Kashable’s mission to improve the financial well-being of its customers” stated Donald Poulton, President and Chief Executive Officer of Medallion Bank. “Medallion Bank is proud to leverage our expertise in lending and partnerships to help extend Kashable’s services to a broader audience of working Americans.”

    Medallion Bank will originate personal loans on the Kashable platform, enhancing Kashable’s ability to introduce its services to employers, benefit administration platforms, marketplaces, and industry brokers, further solidifying its leadership in the financial wellness industry.

    “Our relationship with Medallion Bank provides Kashable with a strong financial partner that will support us on our journey to expand financial wellness into new communities, employers, and their employees. This partnership enables us to leverage our patented proprietary system and demonstrate an unparalleled ability to look beyond credit scores alone to reward long-term, stable employees,” added Einat Steklov, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Kashable. “The opportunities this partnership unlocks advance our mission of providing access to affordable credit with the convenience of automated repayments through deep integrations with HRIS and payroll systems.”

    About Medallion Bank

    Medallion Bank specializes in providing consumer loans for the purchase of recreational vehicles, boats, and home improvements, along with loan origination services to fintech strategic partners. The Bank works directly with thousands of dealers, contractors and financial service providers serving their customers throughout the United States. Medallion Bank is a Utah-chartered, FDIC-insured industrial bank headquartered in Salt Lake City and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Medallion Financial Corp. (Nasdaq: MFIN).

    For more information, visit http://www.medallionbank.com.

    About Kashable, LLC

    Kashable is a financial technology company that provides access to Socially Responsible Credit™ and financial wellness solutions for employees, offered as an employer-sponsored voluntary benefit. By partnering with hundreds of employers, Kashable helps to provide access to financial health and wellness tools to millions of employees.

    Founded in 2013, Kashable deploys innovative technology to improve the financial well-being of working Americans with a commitment to both reliability and affordability. Offering a smart, economical, and fast alternative for employees who may otherwise be driven to borrow from retirement plans, high-rate credit cards, or other high-cost loans to bridge short-term gaps in their finances, Kashable focuses on providing a path to financial security.

    For more information, visit Kashable.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Please note that this press release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties relating to business performance, cash flow, costs, sales, net investment income, earnings, returns and growth. These statements are often, but not always, made through the use of words or phrases such as “remain,” “anticipate” or the negative version of this word or other comparable words or phrases of a future or forward-looking nature, such as “look forward.” These statements may relate to our future earnings, returns, capital levels, sources of funding, growth prospects, asset quality and pursuit and execution of our strategy. Medallion Bank’s actual results may differ significantly from the results discussed in such forward-looking statements. For a description of certain risks to which Medallion Bank is or may be subject, please refer to the factors discussed under the captions “Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” and “Risk Factors” included in Medallion Bank’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, and in its Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, filed with the FDIC. Medallion Bank’s Form 10-K, Form 10-Qs and other FDIC filings are available in the Investor Relations section of Medallion Bank’s website. Medallion Bank’s financial results for any period are not necessarily indicative of Medallion Financial Corp.’s results for the same period.

    Medallion Bank Contact:
    Investor Relations
    212-328-2176
    InvestorRelations@medallion.com

    Kashable Contact:
    Kashable@mww.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: reAlpha Invests in Xmore AI to Advance AI-Powered Cybersecurity Solutions

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DUBLIN, Ohio, Sept. 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — reAlpha Tech Corp. (“reAlpha”) (Nasdaq: AIRE), a real estate technology company developing and commercializing artificial intelligence (“AI”) technologies, today announced the selection of Xmore AI as the first company to secure investment from its newly launched reAlpha AI Labs, reAlpha’s research and development initiative.

    Xmore AI, co-founded by Dr. Benjamin Yan and Adrian Self, leverages over a decade of research in AI-driven cybersecurity and has developed a platform that consolidates multiple cybersecurity tools into a seamless, AI-driven solution, ensuring that enterprises can operate securely in a rapidly evolving digital environment. Dr. Yan is a Professor of Computer Science and Engineering at Michigan State University. Adrian Self, a cybersecurity professional with extensive experience in blockchain security and embedded systems, complements Dr. Yan’s expertise with his hands-on approach to security assessments and technology integration. This investment marks a strategic milestone for reAlpha AI Labs to accelerate the development of AI technologies and advance technology innovation in the real estate industry.

    Mike Logozzo, President and Chief Operating Officer of reAlpha, emphasized the broader impact of Xmore AI’s technology: “At reAlpha AI Labs, we aim to create an environment where innovative AI startups can thrive. Xmore AI’s focus on cybersecurity aligns with our vision and we believe Xmore AI’s technology will enhance the security and scalability across our AI homebuying platform and our recently acquired portfolio companies.” reAlpha’s recently acquired portfolio companies include Naamche, Hyperfast, Be My Neighbor, and AiChat.

    “Xmore AI represents the next generation of forward-thinking innovation we envisioned to collaborate with when we launched reAlpha AI Labs,” said Vinayak Grover, Associate Vice President of AI Labs at reAlpha. “Their expertise in cybersecurity, particularly for AI operations, will be critical as AI becomes more integrated into enterprise systems.”

    In addition to enhancing reAlpha’s AI homebuying platform through its AI-cybersecurity expertise, Xmore AI is developing a software that will consolidate multiple cybersecurity tools to provide AI-cybersecurity solutions to enterprises in multiple industries. At the core of Xmore AI’s innovation is its ability to address the unique vulnerabilities created by the rapid expansion of AI across industries. We believe Xmore AI is well-positioned to address critical challenges like data privacy, compliance, and risk management, by providing innovative solutions designed to meet the evolving needs of the cybersecurity landscape.

    “With AI becoming more integrated into how businesses operate, it is essential that cybersecurity evolves alongside it,” said Dr. Yan, co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Xmore AI. “Through our partnership with reAlpha AI Labs, we believe we are in a position to deliver scalable, cutting-edge security solutions that protect enterprises from the emerging risks of AI integration.”

    Launched earlier this year, reAlpha AI Labs is designed to support innovative AI startups with funding, technical resources, and strategic partnerships. By providing early-stage funding along with access to reAlpha’s extensive network, the program is committed to accelerating the growth and efficacy of AI-driven solutions.

    The incubation of Xmore AI not only highlights reAlpha AI Labs’ commitment to cybersecurity, but it also marks reAlpha AI Labs’ broader mission to drive AI advancements across sectors like real estate, fintech, and enterprise technology.

    About reAlpha Tech Corp.

    reAlpha Tech Corp. (Nasdaq: AIRE) is a real estate technology company developing an end-to-end commission-free homebuying platform. Utilizing the power of AI and an acquisition-led growth strategy, reAlpha’s goal is to offer a more affordable, streamlined experience for those on the journey to homeownership. For more information, visit https://www.realpha.com/.

    About Xmore AI

    Xmore AI is developing a software that will offer innovative AI-driven cybersecurity solutions by consolidating multiple cybersecurity tools into a single platform, which will provide real-time risk analysis, vulnerability detection, and IT operations management, all while ensuring privacy by keeping data within the enterprise.

    About the reAlpha Platform

    reAlpha (previously called “Claire”), announced on April 24, 2024, is reAlpha’s generative AI-powered, commission-free, homebuying platform. The tagline: No fees. Just keys.™ – reflects reAlpha’s dedication to eliminating traditional barriers and making homebuying more accessible and transparent.

    reAlpha’s introduction aligns with major shifts in the real estate sector after the National Association of Realtors agreed to settle certain lawsuits upon being found to have violated antitrust laws, resulting in inflated fees paid to buy-side agents. This development is expected to result in the end of the standard six percent sales commission, which equates to approximately $100 billion in realtor fees paid annually. The reAlpha platform offers a cost-free alternative for homebuyers by utilizing an AI-driven workflow that assists them through the homebuying process.

    Homebuyers using the reAlpha platform’s conversational interface will be able to interact with Claire, reAlpha’s AI buyer’s agent, to guide them through every step of their homebuying journey, from property search to closing the deal. By offering support 24/7, Claire is poised to make the homebuying process more efficient, enjoyable, and cost-efficient. Claire matches buyers with their dream homes using over 400 data attributes and provides insights into market trends and property values. Additionally, Claire can assist with questions, booking property tours, submitting offers, and negotiations.

    Currently, the reAlpha platform is under limited availability for homebuyers located in 20 counties in Florida, but reAlpha is actively seeking new MLS and brokerage licenses that will enable expansion into more U.S. states.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    The information in this press release includes “forward-looking statements”. Forward-looking statements include, among other things, statements about Xmore AI’s technology and the reAlpha AI Labs initiative; the anticipated benefits of Xmore AI’s technology and the reAlpha AI Labs initiative; reAlpha’s ability to anticipate the future needs of the short-term rental market; future trends in the real estate, technology and artificial intelligence industries, generally; and reAlpha’s future growth strategy and growth rate. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as “may”, “should”, “could”, “might”, “plan”, “possible”, “project”, “strive”, “budget”, “forecast”, “expect”, “intend”, “will”, “estimate”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “predict”, “potential” or “continue”, or the negatives of these terms or variations of them or similar terminology. Factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations include, but are not limited to: reAlpha’s limited operating history and that reAlpha has not yet fully developed its AI-based technologies; reAlpha’s ability to commercialize its developing AI-based technologies; whether reAlpha’s technology and products will be accepted and adopted by its customers and intended users; reAlpha’s ability to leverage Xmore AI’s technology and the reAlpha AI Labs initiative into its existing business and the anticipated demand for reAlpha AI Labs collaborations and partnerships; Xmore AI’s ability to develop its software to consolidate cybersecurity tools to provide AI-cybersecurity solutions to enterprises and the anticipated demand for such software; the inability to maintain and strengthen reAlpha’s brand and reputation; the inability to accurately forecast demand for short-term rentals and AI-based real estate focused products; the inability to execute business objectives and growth strategies successfully or sustain reAlpha’s growth; the inability of reAlpha’s customers to pay for reAlpha’s services; changes in applicable laws or regulations, and the impact of the regulatory environment and complexities with compliance related to such environment; and other risks and uncertainties indicated in reAlpha’s U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) filings. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management at the date the statements are made and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements. Although reAlpha believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. reAlpha’s future results, level of activity, performance or achievements may differ materially from those contemplated, expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, and there is no representation that the actual results achieved will be the same, in whole or in part, as those set out in the forward-looking statements. For more information about the factors that could cause such differences, please refer to reAlpha’s filings with the SEC. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements, and reAlpha does not undertake any 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.

    Media
    irlabs on behalf of reAlpha
    Fatema Bhabrawala
    fatema@irlabs.ca

    1 https://market.us/report/ai-in-cybersecurity-market/

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Student Olympiad “I am a professional”: the new season has started

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

    September 26th was held press conference, dedicated to the opening of the VIII season of the student Olympiad “I am a professional“, the co-organizer of which is the Higher School of Economics. This project of the presidential platform “Russia – the Country of Opportunities” is being implemented with the support of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation.

    “I am a professional” is a large-scale platform for testing the knowledge and applied skills of students from Russian universities. The Olympiad has been held since 2017 and covers more than 70 subject areas – from aircraft manufacturing to artificial intelligence. The list of areas is updated annually, taking into account the requests of participants and current changes in the labor market. In the VIII season, such new disciplines as “Project Management” and “Digital Product Management and Innovation” will be presented.

    Participants of the Olympiad learn to solve industry practical problems, which allows training highly qualified specialists already at the stage of study at the university. All tasks are developed by experts from leading universities and research institutes, of which there are more than 30, together with specialists from more than 600 partner companies, including Yandex, Sber, VTB, Rosatom and others.

    “I am a professional” pursues two global goals: to create conditions for professional and personal development of Russian youth and to increase the number of those who seek opportunities for self-realization and want to be successful in the Russian labor market. Therefore, the main idea of this season was the theme “Work and study in Russia”.

    “In Russia, the need for professionals is enormous — all industries need fresh ideas and people who can implement them. Today is the best time to study and work in Russia, because it is here that the best opportunities open up, the most interesting professional challenges, and therefore career prospects, are available. “I am a professional” helps a talented student and his potential employer find each other. The largest and most technologically advanced companies in our country are looking for ambitious interns. “I am a professional” is not just an Olympiad, it is a community that supports you, where your potential is revealed, where you grow both as an individual and as a highly competent specialist,” says Andrey Betin, Executive Director of ANO “Russia — Country of Opportunities”, Rector of the Senezh Management Workshop.

    Over the past seven seasons, more than 1.2 million students have taken part in the Olympiad. The number of registrations is several times higher: in the seventh season alone, over 850 thousand were received, of which more than 17 thousand were students of the Higher School of Economics, which corresponds to the second position in the university rankings by total number of registrations. Moreover, in 2023, HSE was the university that organized seven areas – economics, design, sociology, journalism, business informatics, urban studies and quantum technologies – for which more than 100 thousand registrations were recorded.

    The best participants of the Olympiad receive benefits when entering the master’s and postgraduate programs of the National Research University Higher School of Economics and other leading universities, as well as the opportunity to do an internship and start a career in a large Russian company. Prizes from 100 to 300 thousand rubles are provided for the medalists of the Olympiad: over seven seasons, the total amount of cash prizes amounted to more than 500 million rubles for 3,500 medalists.

    The Olympiad includes the Career Development Center “I am a Professional”, which provides access to internships and vacancies in leading Russian companies, consultations with career experts, educational events and excursions to the offices and production facilities of industry leaders – partners of the Olympiad. More than 300 thousand Olympiad participants gained experience in career navigation, and more than 100 thousand completed internships with the possibility of subsequent employment.

    In Season VIII, it is planned to expand access to the career portal – a platform where each participant can find a vacancy in the profile they are interested in. The opportunity to respond will also be available to Olympiad participants who have successfully passed the selection stage.

    “Today’s economic situation and challenges require new approaches to personnel training. The main task is to help young people not only gain knowledge, but also develop the skills that will allow them to confidently look to the future, adapt to changes and become leaders in their fields. The Olympiad participants are the people who will move the Russian economy forward tomorrow, create innovations and make our country stronger. And we, for our part, are doing everything possible to ensure that these young talents receive support and motivation for further development,” commented Alexander Shokhin, President of the HSE University and President of the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs.

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

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

    http://vvv.hse.ru/nevs/edu/968285066.html

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: As Republicans continue to block the right to IVF, Governor Newsom signs legislation to expand access

    Source: US State of California 2

    Sep 29, 2024

    What you need to know: Governor Newsom signed legislation today to expand IVF coverage.

    Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced that he has signed SB 729 by Senator Caroline Menjivar (D-Van Nuys) which requires large group health care service plan contracts and disability insurance policies to provide coverage for the diagnosis and treatment of infertility and fertility service, including in vitro fertilization (IVF). A signing message can be found here.

    Today’s action comes as Republicans in the U.S. Senate blocked legislation to establish a nationwide right to in vitro fertilization, for a second time this year, just last week. 

    “California is a proud reproductive freedom state – and that includes increasing access to fertility services that help those who want to start a family. As Republicans across the country continue to claw back rights and block access to IVF – all while calling themselves ‘the party of families’ – we are proud to help every Californian make their own choices about the family they want.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    California’s leadership on reproductive rights

    In the over two years since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, Governor Newsom, in partnership with the California Legislature, has built California into a national leader for reproductive freedom. Governor Newsom is a founding member of the Reproductive Freedom Alliance, a nonpartisan coalition of 23 Governors committed to protecting and expanding reproductive freedom. The Newsom administration has invested more than $240 million to protect and expand access to reproductive health care in California since the reversal of Roe.

    People seeking abortion care or information about reproductive health care in California, should visit Abortion.CA.Gov.

    Recent news

    Sep 29, 2024

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom announced that the “godmother of AI,” Dr. Fei-Fei Li, as well as Tino Cuéllar, member of the National Academy of Sciences Committee on Social and Ethical Implications of Computing Research, and Jennifer Tour Chayes, Dean of…

    Sep 29, 2024

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom signed a package of bills that will streamline and simplify procedures that support veterans and their families. Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced that he had signed a package of bills designed…

    Sep 28, 2024

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom signed a package of legislation today to increase participation in food assistance programs, protect kids from overly processed foods, reduce food waste, and improve access to healthy, locally grown foods in an effort to…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom issues legislative update 9.29.24

    Source: US State of California 2

    Sep 29, 2024

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced that he has signed the following bills:
     

    • AB 98 by Assemblymember Juan Carrillo (D-Palmdale) – Planning and zoning: logistics use: truck routes.
    • AB 347 by Assemblymember Philip Ting (D-San Francisco) – Household product safety: toxic substances: testing and enforcement.
    • AB 772 by Assemblymember Dr. Corey Jackson (D-Moreno Valley) – Child day care facilities.
    • AB 796 by Assemblymember Dr. Akilah Weber (D-San Diego) – Athletic trainers.
    • AB 801 by Assemblymember Joe Patterson (R-Rocklin) – Student privacy: online personal information.
    • AB 866 by Assemblymember Blanca Rubio (D-Baldwin Park) – Juveniles: care and treatment.
    • AB 977 by Assemblymember Freddie Rodriguez (D-Pomona) – Emergency departments: assault and battery.
    • AB 1755 by Assemblymember Ash Kalra (D-San Jose) – Civil actions: restitution for or replacement of a new motor vehicle. A signing message can be found here.
    • AB 1810 by Assemblymember Isaac Bryan (D-Los Angeles) – Incarcerated persons: menstrual products.
    • AB 1824 by Assemblymember Avelino Valencia (D-Anaheim) – California Consumer Privacy Act of 2018: opt out right: mergers.
    • AB 1825 by Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi (D-Torrance) – California Freedom to Read Act.
    • AB 1841 by Assemblymember Dr. Akilah Weber (D-San Diego) – Student safety: opioid overdose reversal medication: student housing facilities.
    • AB 1843 by Assemblymember Freddie Rodriguez (D-Pomona) – Emergency ambulance employees.
    • AB 1907 by Assemblymember Gail Pellerin (D-Santa Cruz) – California Child and Family Service Review System: Child and Adolescent Needs and Strengths (CANS) assessment.
    • AB 1934 by Assemblymember Tim Grayson (D-Concord) – Digital financial asset businesses.
    • AB 2074 by Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi (D-Torrance) – Pupil instruction: English Learner Roadmap Policy: statewide implementation plan. A signing message can be found here.
    • AB 2096 by Assemblymember Cottie Petrie-Norris (D-Irvine) – Restraining orders: educational institutions.
    • AB 2119 by Assemblymember Dr. Akilah Weber (D-San Diego) – Mental health.
    • AB 2123 by Assemblymember Diane Papan (D-San Mateo) – Disability compensation: paid family leave.
    • AB 2129 by Assemblymember Cottie Petrie-Norris (D-Irvine) – Immediate postpartum contraception.
    • AB 2132 by Assemblymember Evan Low (D-Campbell) – Health care services: tuberculosis.
    • AB 2164 by Assemblymember Marc Berman (D-Menlo Park) – Physicians and surgeons: licensure requirements: disclosure.
    • AB 2192 by Assemblymember Juan Carrillo (D-Palmdale) – Public agencies: cost accounting standards.
    • AB 2215 by Assemblymember Isaac Bryan (D-Los Angeles) – Criminal procedure: arrests.
    • AB 2224 by Assemblymember Miguel Santiago (D-Los Angeles) – Special immigrant juvenile status: court orders and guardianship.
    • AB 2245 by Assemblymember Juan Carrillo (D-Palmdale) – Certificated school employees: permanent status: regional occupational centers or programs operated by single school districts.
    • AB 2318 by Assemblymember Diane Papan (D-San Mateo) – State Water Pollution Cleanup and Abatement Account: receipts and expenditures: report.
    • AB 2343 by Assemblymember Pilar Schiavo (D-Chatsworth) – CalWORKs: childcare programs.
    • AB 2357 by Assemblymember Dr. Jasmeet Bains (D-Bakersfield) – University of California: school of medicine: University of California Kern County Medical Education Endowment Fund. A signing message can be found here.
    • AB 2377 by Assemblymember Luz Rivas (D-Sylmar) – Pupil instruction: physical education: accommodation: religious fasting.
    • AB 2443 by Assemblymember Juan Carrillo (D-Palmdale) – Transactions and use taxes: Cities of Lancaster, Palmdale, and Victorville.
    • AB 2458 by Assemblymember Marc Berman (D-Menlo Park) – Public postsecondary education: student parents.
    • AB 2475 by Assemblymember Matt Haney (D-San Francisco) – Parole.
    • AB 2483 by Assemblymember Philip Ting (D-San Francisco) – Postconviction proceedings.
    • AB 2484 by Assemblymember Isaac Bryan (D-Los Angeles) – Courts: juveniles: remote proceedings.
    • AB 2493 by Assemblymember Gail Pellerin (D-Santa Cruz) – Tenancy: application screening fee.
    • AB 2499 by Assemblymember Pilar Schiavo (D-Chatsworth) – Employment: unlawful discrimination and paid sick days: victims of violence.
    • AB 2531 by Assemblymember Isaac Bryan (D-Los Angeles) – Deaths while in law enforcement custody: reporting.
    • AB 2738 by Assemblymember Luz Rivas (D-Sylmar) – Labor Code: alternative enforcement: occupational safety. A signing message can be found here.
    • AB 2741 by Assemblymember Matt Haney (D-San Francisco) – Rental car companies: electronic surveillance technology.
    • AB 2843 by Assemblymember Cottie Petrie-Norris (D-Irvine) – Health care coverage: rape and sexual assault.
    • AB 2883 by Assemblymember Evan Low (D-Campbell) – California State University: University of California: Lunar New Year holiday.
    • AB 2988 by Assemblymember Kevin McCarty (D-Sacramento) – Courts.
    • AB 2998 by Assemblymember Tina McKinnor (D-Inglewood) – Opioid overdose reversal medications: pupil administration.
    • AB 3059 by Assemblymember Dr. Akilah Weber (D-San Diego) – Human milk.
    • AB 3145 by Assemblymember Isaac Bryan (D-Los Angeles) – Family preservation services: standards.
    • AB 3206 by Assemblymember Tina McKinnor (D-Inglewood) – Alcoholic beverages: hours of sale: arenas in the City of Inglewood. A signing message can be found here. 
    • AB 3258 by Assemblymember Isaac Bryan (D-Los Angeles) – Refinery and chemical plants.
    • SB 285 by Senator Ben Allen (D-Santa Monica) – Criminal procedure: sentencing.
    • SB 379 by Senator Thomas Umberg (D-Santa Ana) – Victim services: restorative justice.
    • SB 442 by Senator Monique Limόn (D-Santa Barbara) – Sexual battery.
    • SB 504 by Senator Bill Dodd (D-Napa) – Wildfires: defensible space: grant programs: local governments.
    • SB 551 by Senator Anthony Portantino (D-Burbank) – Beverage containers: recycling.
    • SB 575 by Senator Aisha Wahab (D-Silicon Valley) – Marriage: underage marriage.
    • SB 918 by Senator Thomas Umberg (D-Santa Ana) – Law enforcement contact process: search warrants.
    • SB 940 by Senator Thomas Umberg (D-Santa Ana) – Civil disputes.
    • SB 946 by Senator Mike McGuire (D-North Coast) – Personal Income Tax Law: Corporation Tax Law: exclusions: wildfire mitigation payments.
    • SB 958 by Senator Bill Dodd (D-Napa) – Surplus state property: County of Napa.
    • SB 1143 by Senator Ben Allen (D-Santa Monica) – Paint products: stewardship program.
    • SB 1174 by Senator Dave Min (D-Irvine) – Elections: voter identification.
    • SB 1303 by Senator Anna Caballero (D-Merced) – Public works.
    • SB 1379 by Senator Bill Dodd (D-Napa) – Public Employees’ Retirement Law: reinstatement: County of Solano.
    • SB 1386 by Senator Anna Caballero (D-Merced) – Evidence: sexual assault.

     The Governor also announced that he has vetoed the following bills:

    • AB 637 by Assemblymember Dr. Corey Jackson (D-Moreno Valley) – Zero-emission vehicles: fleet owners: rental vehicles. A veto message can be found here. 
    • AB 1111 by Assemblymember Gail Pellerin (D-Santa Cruz) – Cannabis: small producer event sales license. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 1122 by Assemblymember Dr. Jasmeet Bains (D-Bakersfield) – Commercial harbor craft: equipment. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 1296 by Assemblymember Tim Grayson (D-Concord) – Bar pilots: regulation of vessels. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 1890 by Assemblymember Joe Patterson (R-Rocklin) – Public works: prevailing wage. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 1895 by Assemblymember Dr. Akilah Weber (D-San Diego) – Public health: maternity ward closures. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 1973 by Assemblymember Tom Lackey (R-Palmdale) – Personal Income Tax Law: Corporation Tax Law: Bobcat Fire: exclusions. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2058 by Assemblymember Dr. Akilah Weber (D-San Diego) – Devices: disclosures. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2178 by Assemblymember Philip Ting (D-San Francisco) – Prisons: bed thresholds. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2447 by Assemblymember Avelino Valencia (D-Anaheim) – California State University: fiscal transparency: internet website. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2693 by Assemblymember Buffy Wicks (D-Oakland) – Childhood sexual assault: statute of limitations. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2773 by Assemblymember Ash Kalra (D-San Jose) – Elders and dependent adults: abuse or neglect. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2892 by Assemblymember Evan Low (D-Campbell) – Vehicles: financial responsibility: self-insurance. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 3179 by Assemblymember Juan Carrillo (D-Palmdale) – Emergency telecommunications medium- and heavy-duty zero-emission vehicles. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 3245 by Assemblymember Joe Patterson (R-Rocklin) – Coverage for colorectal cancer screening. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 3282 by the Committee on Judiciary – Courts. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 299 by Senator Monique Limόn (D-Santa Barbara) – Voter registration: California New Motor Voter Program. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 336 by Senator Thomas Umberg (D-Santa Ana) – State grant programs: negotiated indirect cost rates. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 542 by Senator Brian Dahle (R-Bieber) – Personal Income Tax Law: Corporation Tax Law: wildfires: exclusions. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 615 by Senator Ben Allen (D-Santa Monica) – Vehicle traction batteries. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 782 by Senator Monique Limόn (D-Santa Barbara) – Gubernatorial appointments: report. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 984 by Senator Aisha Wahab (D-Silicon Valley) – Public agencies: project labor agreements. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 1022 by Senator Nancy Skinner (D-Berkeley) – Enforcement of civil rights. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 1066 by Senator Catherine Blakespear (D-Encinitas) – Hazardous waste: marine flares: manufacturer responsibility. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 1155 by Senator Melissa Hurtado (D-Sanger) – Political Reform Act of 1974: postgovernment employment restrictions. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 1281 by Senator Caroline Menjivar (D-San Fernando Valley/Burbank) – Advancing Equity and Access in the Self-Determination Program Act. A veto message can be found here.

    For full text of the bills, visit: http://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov.

    Recent news

    Sep 29, 2024

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom signed legislation today to expand IVF coverage. Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced that he has signed SB 729 by Senator Caroline Menjivar (D-Van Nuys) which requires large group health care…

    Sep 29, 2024

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom announced that the “godmother of AI,” Dr. Fei-Fei Li, as well as Tino Cuéllar, member of the National Academy of Sciences Committee on Social and Ethical Implications of Computing Research, and Jennifer Tour Chayes, Dean of…

    Sep 29, 2024

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom signed a package of bills that will streamline and simplify procedures that support veterans and their families. Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced that he had signed a package of bills designed…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Verizon and Vertical Bridge agree to $3.3 billion tower transaction

    Source: Verizon

    Headline: Verizon and Vertical Bridge agree to $3.3 billion tower transaction

    NEW YORK, NY & BOCA RATON, FL – September 30, 2024 – Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ) and Vertical Bridge today announced they have entered into a definitive agreement for Vertical Bridge to obtain the exclusive rights to lease, operate and manage 6,339 wireless communications towers across all 50 states and Washington, D.C. from subsidiaries of Verizon for approximately $3.3 billion, including certain commercial benefits. The transaction is structured as a prepaid lease with upfront proceeds of approximately $2.8 billion in cash.

    Under the terms, Verizon will enter into a 10-year agreement1 to lease back capacity on the towers from Vertical Bridge, serving as the anchor tenant, with options that could extend the lease term up to 50 years. Verizon will also have access to certain additional space on the towers for its future use, subject to certain restrictions. This agreement, along with Verizon’s existing build-to-suit joint venture with Vertical Bridge, will support Verizon’s efforts to drive down tower-related costs and provide greater vendor diversity in a concentrated industry. 

    “As the nation’s largest mobility provider, we are well positioned with greater financial flexibility to invest in our business, return value to our shareholders and make the nation’s best network even better for customers,” said Verizon Chairman and CEO Hans Vestberg. “This transaction builds on our existing relationship with Vertical Bridge while realizing substantial value for this unique set of assets and allows us to be agile in optimizing the network with one of the best operating partners.” 

    “We are pleased to have been selected by Verizon as the counterparty in the largest US tower transaction in almost a decade,” said Ron Bizick, President and CEO of Vertical Bridge. “This transaction represents a significant step for Vertical Bridge. The vision of the company founders 10 years ago was to create a permanent, private, and at-scale US tower company. This transaction marks a significant milestone in the realization of that vision. Upon the completion of this transaction, these assets, together with our existing portfolio which includes thousands of young, purpose-built towers, enhance Vertical Bridge’s position as a fast, friendly, and flexible colocation partner to the wireless industry.”

    “Since co-founding Vertical Bridge in 2014, we’ve been on a transformative journey, and this landmark transaction with Verizon Communications marks an inflection point in that evolution,” said Marc Ganzi, CEO of DigitalBridge and Vice Chairman of Vertical Bridge. “This transaction not only solidifies our leadership in the tower space but also strategically positions us to capitalize on the growing demand for wireless infrastructure, especially as AI-driven technologies and 5G continue to reshape connectivity needs across industries.”

    DigitalBridge, a leading global alternative asset manager dedicated to investing in digital infrastructure and majority owner of Vertical Bridge, has committed capital to support the transaction.

    CDPQ, a global investment group and an important shareholder of Vertical Bridge since 2019, also committed capital to finance this transaction.

    The transaction is expected to close by the end of 2024, subject to customary closing conditions.

    Advisors
    J.P. Morgan acted as financial advisor to Verizon and Jones Day acted as legal counsel. Centerview Partners LLC served as financial advisor to Vertical Bridge and Greenberg Traurig acted as legal counsel. Simpson Thacher & Bartlett acted as legal counsel to DigitalBridge. Mayer Brown LLP acted as legal counsel to CDPQ.

    About Vertical Bridge 
    Vertical Bridge REIT, LLC, headquartered in Boca Raton, Florida, was founded in 2014 and is the largest private owner and operator of communications infrastructure and locations in the United States, with a portfolio of more than 500,000 sites, including over 11,000 owned and master-leased towers pre-transaction. Vertical Bridge provides build-to-suit and colocation solutions to the wireless industry. The Company’s portfolio spreads across all 50 states and Puerto Rico. 

    In 2020, Vertical Bridge became the first tower company in the world to achieve the CarbonNeutral® company certified status and has been recertified every year since. For more information, please visit http://www.verticalbridge.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    n this communication we have made forward-looking statements. These statements are based on our estimates and assumptions and are subject to risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements include the information concerning our possible or assumed future results of operations. Forward-looking statements also include those preceded or followed by the words “anticipates,” “assumes,” “believes,” “estimates,” “expects,” “forecasts,” “hopes,” “intends,” “plans,” “targets” or similar expressions. For those statements, we claim the protection of the safe harbor for forward-looking statements contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. We undertake no obligation to revise or publicly release the results of any revision to these forward-looking statements, except as required by law. Given these risks and uncertainties, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements.

    [1] Initial term of 10 years, plus 8 optional renewal terms of 5 years each, subject to certain early termination rights. 

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Environment – Civil Society Groups call on Plastics Treaty negotiators to agree on a text that effectively tackles plastic pollution across its lifecycle

    Source: Global Plastics Treaty

    Oct. 1, 2024 – Nairobi, Kenya—As countries conclude a Head of Delegations meeting today in Nairobi for an international legally binding agreement to end plastic pollution or the Global Plastics Treaty, civil society groups have been uniting their voices and held simultaneous actions to emphasize a call for a strong and effective global plastics treaty and show solidarity with high ambition countries, such as those in the African Group, Group of Latin America and the Caribbean (GRULAC), Pacific Small Island Developing States (PSIDS),  and the Philippines that have been advocating for strong treaty measures.

    The final scheduled plastics treaty negotiations will take place in Busan, Republic of Korea later this year. Since the process started in 2022, civil society groups, alongside Indigenous Peoples representatives and independent scientists have been calling on governments to ensure that the treaty includes legally binding measures that cover the whole life cycle of plastics, including rules and targets on the production and supply of primary plastic polymers to drastically cut plastic production with aims to phase out plastic production.

    “Over 400 million tonnes of plastics are produced every year, suffocating our planet and every living thing on it. Now is not the time to sacrifice ambition and submit to the lowest common denominator: a minority of countries blocking progress for their own short-term gain,” said Ana Rocha, Global Plastics Policy Director of the Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives (GAIA). “Indigenous Peoples, waste pickers, and Global South governments on the frontlines of the plastics crisis have long been at the forefront of the solutions, yet their critical voices have been sidelined. The world needs ambition to be aligned with strong means of implementation including a financial mechanism that will provide the necessary financing for action. The intergovernmental negotiating committee must listen to the millions of people around the world demanding a strong treaty to end plastic pollution.”

    The groups also call for the elimination of chemicals that are hazardous to human health and the environment throughout the lifecycle of plastics, as plastics expose people to more than 16,000 chemicals and 4,200 of them are classified as hazardous to people and the environment.

    “A treaty that does not prioritize production reduction of primary plastic polymers (PPP) and eliminate chemicals of concern will only serve to perpetuate plastic pollution and the poisoning of Indigenous and environmental justice communities around the world who have been sacrificed by industry and enabling governments for generations,” said Frankie Orona, Executive Director of Society of Native Nations. “We welcome the common goal of the High Ambition Coalition (HAC) to end plastic pollution by 2040, while reaffirming that no amount of production of PPP is sustainable. The HAC should explicitly support, at minimum, a reduction target of 75% by 2030 if not sooner.”

    Additional demands include the support for reuse systems, a strong, dedicated financial mechanism to facilitate the flow of financial resources from the developed to the developing world, and measures for a just transition to safer and more sustainable livelihoods for workers across the plastic supply chain.  

    “As we reduce plastic production, it is essential we ensure a just transition to reuse and refill systems, which present numerous benefits for people and the environment,” said Marian Ledesma, Zero Waste Campaigner at Greenpeace Southeast Asia – Philippines. “In addition to reducing plastic waste, reuse and refill solutions can decrease greenhouse gas emissions, water consumption and material resource usage. These systems also bring socioeconomic gains for communities through reduced costs and risks arising from plastic pollution.  As integral solutions in ending plastic pollution, we need ambitious reuse and refill targets to be reflected in the treaty alongside reduction targets for plastic production and use.”

    “As we come towards the final round of negotiations, we must not sacrifice ambition for speed. Ambition means both legally binding control measures and finance to help solve the problem,” said Jacob Kean-Hammerson, Ocean Campaigner with the Environmental Investigation Agency (EIA).  “Ending plastics pollution is a generational effort we must undertake as a global community. Global North countries should join calls in the Global South for a new dedicated fund and ensure adequate funding to ensure we have a treaty that truly works.”

    Since the beginning of the INC process, civil society organizations, as well as many governments, have been calling for an open and transparent process that facilitates the widest possible public participation. Instead, observers have been met with limitations that have ranged from caps on attendance, restricted access to negotiations and relevant meetings, and curtailed opportunities to make formal statements. With possibly one last round of negotiations remaining, civil society groups renew their calls for greater transparency and participation in the process to ensure that the demands for a strong and effective plastics treaty are heard.

    “By not including pathways for robust observer participation, meeting organizers are contradicting established international norms and are ignoring and disrespecting the experience, knowledge, expertise, and distinct perspectives of Indigenous Peoples and other frontline and fenceline communities disproportionately impacted by plastic pollution across its life cycle,” said Merrisa Naidoo of GAIA Africa.

    Having a global plastics treaty is a rare opportunity to systematically end plastic pollution through a legally binding international agreement that covers the complexities of the plastic pollution crisis beyond waste management. As UN Member states are expected to wrap up negotiations by December 1st, 2024, in Busan, Republic of Korea, civil society groups will continue to urge governments to deliver a strong treaty that would be effective in truly ending plastic pollution, not a watered-down agreement that fails to holistically address the plastic pollution crisis, for the sake of meeting deadlines.

    About BFFP — #BreakFreeFromPlastic is a global movement envisioning a future free from plastic pollution. Since its launch in 2016, more than 3,400 organizations and 14,000 individual supporters worldwide have joined the movement to demand massive reductions in single-use plastics and push for lasting solutions to the plastic pollution crisis. BFFP member organizations and individuals share the values of environmental protection and social justice and work together through a holistic approach to bring about systemic change. This means tackling plastic pollution across the whole plastics value chain – from extraction to disposal – focusing on prevention rather than cure and providing effective solutions. http://www.breakfreefromplastic.org.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK Baroness Butler-Sloss on parliamentary scrutiny #LordSpeakersCorner #HouseOfLords

    Source: United Kingdom UK House of Lords (video statements)

    ‘The country has to have a rule of law’

    Baroness Butler-Sloss, formerly the highest-ranking female judge in England and Wales, discusses her long legal career, success in breaking through the ‘glass ceiling’ holding back women lawyers, and her concerns about the eroding of parliamentary scrutiny over the last decade.

    Catch-up on House of Lords business:

    Watch live events: https://parliamentlive.tv/Lords
    Read the latest news: https://www.parliament.uk/lords/

    Stay up to date with the House of Lords on social media:

    • Twitter: https://twitter.com/UKHouseofLords
    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/UKHouseofLords/
    • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UKHouseofLords
    • Flickr: https://flickr.com/photos/ukhouseoflords/albums
    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-house-of-lords
    • Threads: https://www.threads.net/@UKHouseOfLords

    #HouseOfLords #UKParliament

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AIfha2nal2o

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI: Forex Expo Dubai 2024 Breaks Records with Unprecedented Attendance and Sponsors

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, Oct. 01, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Forex Expo Dubai 2024 is set to make history as it breaks records with the highest-ever number of attendees and sponsors in its esteemed legacy. Welcoming participants from across the globe, the event expects more than 15,000+ attendees and features 200+ sponsors, making it the largest gathering of traders, investors, and financial professionals in the Middle East. 

    Celebrating Women in the FX Industry 

    In addition to its record-breaking success, Forex Expo Dubai 2024 is proud to celebrate the growing influence of women in the online trading and financial industries. This year’s event will honour the exceptional contributions of women leading innovation and transformation in the forex sector. Our distinguished women speakers will share insights on topics ranging from trading strategies to fintech advancements, empowering the next generation of female professionals. 

    Featured speakers include: 

    • Razan Assaf, Compliance Manager, Kama Capital LLC
    • Elena Kupriianova, Chief Marketing Officer, Spotware Systems Ltd.
    • Negin Negahdari, Senior Business Development, Exness
    • Maria Gaibor, Senior Business Development Manager, VT MARKETS
    • Nilima Akter, Head of Marketing, Space World Capital
    • Luna Tajik, Chief Executive Officer, Finest 
    • And many more 

    Their participation highlights Forex Expo Dubai’s commitment to promoting diversity, inclusion, and gender equality within the financial sector. 

    A Special Thanks to Our 200+ Exhibitors 

    Forex Expo Dubai 2024 proudly showcases over 200 exhibitors from around the world, featuring the latest trends, technologies, and opportunities in the trading space. We extend our deepest appreciation to all exhibitors for their invaluable contributions, which have solidified this event as a must-attend for industry professionals. 

    To Register, Users Can Click Here: https://bit.ly/4dppQX5 

    About Forex Expo Dubai 2024 

    Forex Expo Dubai 2024 is the premier event for the global trading community, offering a platform for industry leaders, investors, and professionals to connect, learn, and explore the latest trends in online trading. With a focus on innovation, education, and networking, Forex Expo Dubai is where the future of trading comes to life. 

    Contact

    Ms
    ANJALI KUMARI
    HQMENA
    anjali@hqmena.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: OpenHW Group to Join the Eclipse Foundation, Expanding Open Source RISC-V Innovation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BRUSSELS and OTTAWA, Oct. 01, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In a joint announcement today, the Eclipse Foundation, one of the world’s leading open source software foundations, and OpenHW Group, a global leader in developing open source RISC-V processor cores and IP, revealed that OpenHW will become part of the Eclipse Foundation. This strategic collaboration, set to be finalised by December 2024, will accelerate the development of open source hardware technologies, offering a robust, open alternative to proprietary architectures. This move will benefit a wide array of industries, including artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, IoT, automotive, and high-performance computing (HPC).

    Founded in 2019, OpenHW Group immediately established a strategic partnership with the Eclipse Foundation, drawing on Eclipse’s expertise to deliver key services, including development processes, IP management, IT infrastructure, and back-office operations. This long-standing collaboration has laid the foundation for a seamless integration, strengthening OpenHW’s mission to provide verified, industrial grade, open source cores that are ready for commercial-grade SoC production.

    As part of this transition, OpenHW Group will be renamed the OpenHW Foundation, bringing its extensive network of more than 100 members and partners into the Eclipse Foundation’s open source ecosystem, including prominent organisations such as Barcelona Supercomputing Center, CEA, Red Hat, Silicon Labs, and Thales. By joining forces with the Eclipse Foundation, OpenHW reinforces its commitment to delivering industry-leading open hardware solutions.

    “Joining the Eclipse Foundation is a transformative moment for OpenHW, solidifying our commitment to delivering trusted open hardware solutions to the global market,” said Florian Wohlrab, CEO of OpenHW Group. “This partnership provides the long-term stability, infrastructure, and open source expertise we need to continue driving innovation in RISC-V hardware, benefiting both our members and the broader industry.”

    Mike Milinkovich, executive director of the Eclipse Foundation, added, “Throughout its five-year history, OpenHW has played a pivotal role in pushing the boundaries of open source hardware. Together, we’re now much better positioned to advance cutting-edge technologies in areas like AI, software-defined vehicles, and the Industrial IoT, further strengthening the role of open source in these critical industries.”

    Bolstering Open Source Hardware Innovation

    By joining the Eclipse Foundation, OpenHW can fully focus on further developing RISC-V hardware, an open, flexible, and cost-effective architecture that enables faster innovation while removing traditional licensing barriers. The open source nature of RISC-V makes it an ideal choice for enterprises looking to disrupt markets, especially in sectors such as AI and automotive, where flexibility and scalability are critical.

    Under the governance of the Eclipse Foundation, the OpenHW Foundation will continue to lead and expand on critical projects and initiatives, including:

    • CVA6: 64/32-bit cores designed for high-performance applications like Linux-based systems. These configurable cores offer an industrial-grade platform for a wide range of applications, including those with advanced safety requirements.
    • CVE4: 32-bit embedded-class cores, optimised for IoT, edge computing, and consumer electronics, powering devices like washing machines, robots, drones, and game controllers. Typically, these cores run real-time operating systems such as Eclipse ThreadX or operate in bare-metal environments.
    • CVE2: Small, power-efficient processors, perfect for deeply embedded control applications, replacing state-machine logic in embedded devices.
    • CVA6 Platform: A vendor-neutral software validation platform supporting a variety of FPGA configurations, including cloud-based solutions like AWS ES2 FPGA instances.
    • Software Initiatives: Ongoing efforts to add extensions, improve compilers, and enhance emulators to ensure robust support for our cores across the latest technologies.

    Join OpenHW and Shape the Future of Open Processor Technologies

    As part of the Eclipse Foundation, the OpenHW Foundation is uniquely positioned to advance its mission of supporting industries ranging from embedded systems to supercomputing. By delivering high-quality, verified RISC-V cores, OpenHW meets the rigorous demands of modern applications, ensuring reliability and innovation across diverse sectors. This transition brings exciting opportunities for both existing and new stakeholders to get involved and help shape the future of open source hardware. We invite members, partners, and other stakeholders to actively engage in advancing RISC-V core development, emulation kits, and software initiatives.

    Whether you’re a developer, researcher, or an organisation, joining the OpenHW Foundation gives you direct access to a vibrant, collaborative community that drives RISC-V-based innovation. Explore opportunities to contribute, influence key initiatives, and make your mark in the open hardware community. New members are welcome to join through the Eclipse Foundation. Visit the Eclipse Membership page to learn how to become part of this exciting new chapter.

    Member Quotes

    Barcelona Supercomputing Center (BSC)
    “At BSC, our mission is to push the boundaries of computer architecture and supercomputing. By working closely with OpenHW, we are contributing to the development of high-performance, open source RISC-V cores that are critical to the future of high-performance computing. We are confident OpenHW joining the Eclipse Foundation will only further enhance this collaboration, offering greater opportunities for impact across the global open hardware ecosystem.” – Miquel Moretó, High Performance Domain-Specific Architectures Group Leader at BSC.

    Bluespec
    “The RISC-V community has made a tremendous impact, with millions of cores already being shipped. We’re excited to see OpenHW Group join the Eclipse Foundation and view it as a significant milestone that will drive innovation across the broader ecosystem. At Bluespec, we recognize the importance of fostering a healthy, open source environment and this collaboration ensures continued development of high-quality, industrial-grade open source RISC-V cores.” – Charlie Hauck, CEO of Bluespec.

    CEA
    “CEA has long been at the forefront of research and development in sectors such as low-carbon energy and microelectronics with its Leti institute. Our collaboration with OpenHW enables us to apply our advanced research to open source processor technology, creating new possibilities for commercial and industrial applications. As a long-time existing Strategic Member of the Eclipse Foundation, we are confident that this transition marks an exciting new chapter in our work with OpenHW, ensuring that we continue to drive meaningful innovation in both open hardware and critical global industries.” – Fabien Clermidy, Head of System Division, CEA-Leti.

    Silicon Labs
    “Silicon Labs is proud to support the OpenHW Foundation’s mission of driving innovation in open source hardware. As a leader in radio modules and wireless technologies, we recognize the importance of robust, verified processor cores that meet the demands of modern IoT applications. The Eclipse Foundation’s strong governance and OpenHW’s RISC-V expertise create a powerful platform for collaboration and growth.” – Daniel Ciooley, CTO and SVP at Silicon Labs

    Thales
    “At Thales, we are deeply committed to advancing cutting-edge technologies, and our collaboration with OpenHW aligns perfectly with this mission. Through initiatives like the Europe Tristan project, we are leveraging open source RISC-V processor cores to deliver innovative, secure solutions for the aerospace and defence sectors. The transition to the Eclipse Foundation strengthens this commitment and positions the OpenHW community to drive further breakthroughs in open hardware.” – Daniel Glazman, CTO Software (KTD), Thales Group.

    About the Eclipse Foundation
    The Eclipse Foundation provides our global community of individuals and organisations with a business-friendly environment for open source software collaboration and innovation. We host the Eclipse IDE, Adoptium, Software Defined Vehicle, Jakarta EE, and over 420 open source projects, including runtimes, tools, specifications, and frameworks for cloud and edge applications, IoT, AI, automotive, systems engineering, open processor designs, and many others. Headquartered in Brussels, Belgium, the Eclipse Foundation is an international non-profit association supported by over 360 members. Visit us at this year’s Open Community Experience (OCX) conference on 22-24 October 2024 in Mainz, Germany. To learn more, follow us on social media @EclipseFdn, LinkedIn, or visit eclipse.org.

    About OpenHW Group
    OpenHW Group is a global non-profit organisation dedicated to developing, verifying, and delivering high quality, open source RISC-V processor cores and related IP for commercial and industrial applications. With its extensive network of more than 100 members and partners, OpenHW is driving the advancement of open source processor technology across cloud, mobile, IoT, AI, automotive, HPC, and other domains. Through its CORE-V Task Group, the organisation ensures industry-aligned, high-quality development, supporting cutting-edge SoC production worldwide. OpenHW is supported by leading innovators such as Barcelona Supercomputer Center (BSC), CEA, Red Hat, Silicon Labs, and Thales. To learn more, visit openhwgroup.org.

    Third-party trademarks mentioned are the property of their respective owners.

    Media contacts:
    Schwartz Public Relations (Germany)
    Gloria Huppert/Marita Bäumer
    Sendlinger Straße 42A
    80331 Munich
    EclipseFoundation@schwartzpr.de
    +49 (89) 211 871 -70/ -62

    514 Media Ltd (France, Italy, Spain)
    Benoit Simoneau
    benoit@514-media.com
    M: +44 (0) 7891 920 370

    Nichols Communications (Global Press Contact)
    Jay Nichols
    jay@nicholscomm.com
    +1 408-772-1551

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government school at Okhla organizes “Swabhav Swachhata Sanskaar Swachhata (4S) campaign” in association with Prithak Foundation

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Government school at Okhla organizes “Swabhav Swachhata Sanskaar Swachhata (4S) campaign” in association with Prithak Foundation

    Students showcased their creativity and imagination through art on the theme “Swachhata Hi Seva.”

    Posted On: 01 OCT 2024 11:49AM by PIB Delhi

    Govt. Girls Sr. Sec. School, Harkesh Nagar, Okhla Ph-2 organized Swabhav Swachhata Sanskaar Swachhata (4S) campaign” in association with Prithak Foundation and Ministry of Steel.  The event was graced by Deputy Secretary, Shri Subhash Kumar, Ministry of Steel, Chairman of Prithak Foundation, Shri Abhay Raj Singh, Principal of GGSSS, Ms. Sheetal along with other officers.

    200 students of the school showcased their creativity and imagination through art on the theme “Swachhata Hi Seva.” 

    This year on Independence Day, Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi emphasized how Swachhata has become a fundamental aspect of daily life, driving significant changes in behaviour across the nation. This year’s theme, Swabhav Swachhata Sanskaar Swachhata (4S) 2024, represents a shift towards fostering behavioural change. Swabhav Swachhata Sanskaar Swachhata (4S) campaign has been built around three key pillars, namely, (i) Swachhata Ki Bhaagidari; (ii) Sampoorna Swachhata; and(iii) Safai Mitra Suraksha Shivir

    Chairman, Prithak Foundation expressed his gratitude and said “on behalf of the entire Prithak Foundation Family, we would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the Ministry of Steel and the SAIL team for selecting Prithak Foundation as the supporting partner for event implementation, handling the logistics and ensuring the smooth conduct of the event”.

    Certificates will be signed and returned to Prithak Foundation, along with the drawing posters.

    *****

    MG/SK

    (Release ID: 2060528) Visitor Counter : 63

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Representative Adriano Espaillat Presents Landmark U.S.- Dominican Republic Open Skies Agreement

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Adriano Espaillat (NY-13)

    ESPAILLAT HIGHLIGHTS THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THE HISTORIC OPEN SKIES AGREEMENT IN STRENGTHENING BILATERAL RELATIONS, BOOSTING ECONOMIC AND TRAVEL OPPORTUNITIES

    NEW YORK, NY – Today, Representative Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) presented the historic Cielos Abiertos (Open Skies) agreement between the United States and the Dominican Republic, at an event held at the Juan Pablo Duarte School in New York. The presentation, which was attended by President of the Dominican Republic, the Honorable Luis Abinader; New York City Mayor Eric Adams; U.S. Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment José W. Fernandez; ministers of the Dominican government; and numerous New York elected officials, underscored the landmark deal’s pivotal role in strengthening bilateral ties, spurring economic growth, and expanding travel opportunities between the two nations. 

    The Open Skies (Cielos Abiertos) agreement, signed on August 5, 2024, came after more than two decades of negotiations, with Representative Espaillat playing a crucial role in advocating for its finalization. During his speech at the event, Rep. Espaillat emphasized the transformative nature of the agreement, which will open up new air routes, increase competition among airlines, and significantly reduce flight costs for travelers between the U.S. and the Dominican Republic. 

    “Today’s Open Skies agreement marks a new chapter in U.S.-Dominican relations,” said Espaillat. “This agreement will have a profound impact on Dominican American families, businesses, and tourists, offering more flight options and making travel more affordable. By increasing competition, this deal ensures lower airline fares and more frequent travel opportunities for consumers between our two nations.” 

    For years, Dominican American families have faced limited flight options and exorbitant prices for travel to and from the Dominican Republic, particularly during peak travel seasons. Rep. Espaillat has long advocated for solutions to these challenges, and the Open Skies agreement addresses these concerns by providing more affordable and accessible air travel. 

    The agreement also promises to boost tourism and economic growth in both nations. By increasing flight availability and reducing costs, the deal is expected to drive job creation and enhance commercial ties between the United States and the Dominican Republic. 

    “Open Skies is not only about making air travel easier,” continued Espaillat. “It ensures stronger connections between our people, strengthening our economies, and reinforcing the deep, historic ties that unite our two great nations.” 

    The event was also attended by a number of high-profile leaders, including Dominican President Luis Abinader, New York City Mayor Eric Adams, and U.S. Under Secretary of State José W. Fernandez, who emphasized the significance of this agreement in the context of U.S. foreign policy.

    Rep. Espaillat’s advocacy for the Open Skies agreement reflects his continued commitment representing the Dominican American community while fostering strong, mutually beneficial relations between the United States and the Dominican Republic.

    ###

    Representative Espaillat is the first Dominican American to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives and his congressional district includes Harlem, East Harlem, West Harlem, Hamilton Heights, Washington Heights, Inwood, Marble Hill and the north-west Bronx. First elected to Congress in 2016, Representative Espaillat is serving his fourth term in Congress. Representative Espaillat currently serves as a member of the influential U.S. House Committee on Appropriations responsible for funding the federal government’s vital activities and serves as Ranking Member of the Legislative Branch Subcommittee of the committee during the 118th Congress. He is also a member of the House Budget Committee and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC), where he serves in a leadership role as the Deputy Chair as well as Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI). Rep. Espaillat is a member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus (CPC) and serves as a Senior Whip of the Democratic Caucus. To find out more about Rep. Espaillat, visit online at https://espaillat.house.gov/.

    Media inquiries: Candace Person at Candace.Person@mail.house.gov 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Media Advisory: Deputy Chair Adriano Espaillat Leads Second CHC Artificial Intelligence Roundtable

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Adriano Espaillat (NY-13)

    Watch Live Stream Here

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Wednesday, September 18, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. EST, Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) Deputy Chair Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) will host a roundtable discussion to examine how Artificial Intelligence (AI) impacts our communities every day. With a focus on equity, inclusion, and fair regulation, this conversation will also help shape policies to ensure everyone, including America’s 62+ million Latinos, benefits equitably by evolving AI developments. 

    Tune in online as the CHC works to shape the future of AI.

    Moderated by:

    ·    Congressman Adriano Espaillat (D-NY-13), Deputy Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus

    Participants:

    ·    Members of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus 

    ·    Chan Park, Head of US Policy and Partnerships at OpenAI

    ·    Hoda Hawa, Civil Rights Policy Lead at Google

    ·    Renzo Rodriguez, Managing Director of Amazon Web Services (AWS) Worldwide Public Sector, Federal Technology & Innovation

    ·    Danyelle Solomon, AI Policy Lead at Microsoft

    ·    Allison Virgil, Managing Director with Accenture Federal Services

    ·    Michael Sellitto, Head of Global Affairs at Anthropic

    ·    Ricky Revesz, Administrator of the U.S. Office of Management and Budget’s Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA)

    ·    Conrad Stosz, Director of Policy for the US AI Safety Institute

    WHAT: Roundtable to convene CHC members, stakeholders, for a conversation to ensure that AI policies and advancements reflect and address Hispanic communities’ unique needs and opportunities.

    WHEN: Wednesday, September 18 at 1:00 p.m. EST

    WHERE: Watch Live Stream Here.

    ###

    Representative Espaillat is the first Dominican American to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives and his congressional district includes Harlem, East Harlem, West Harlem, Hamilton Heights, Washington Heights, Inwood, Marble Hill and the north-west Bronx. First elected to Congress in 2016, Representative Espaillat is serving his fourth term in Congress. Representative Espaillat currently serves as a member of the influential U.S. House Committee on Appropriations responsible for funding the federal government’s vital activities and serves as Ranking Member of the Legislative Branch Subcommittee of the committee during the 118th Congress. He is also a member of the House Budget Committee and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC), where he serves in a leadership role as the Deputy Chair as well as Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI). Rep. Espaillat is a member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus (CPC) and serves as a Senior Whip of the Democratic Caucus. To find out more about Rep. Espaillat, visit online at https://espaillat.house.gov/.

    Media inquiries: Candace Person at Candace.Person@mail.house.gov 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Panel discussion: Artificial Intelligence and systemic risk

    Source: European Central Bank (video statements)

    This panel discussion aims to explore how AI is reshaping the landscape of financial stability and systemic risk, from the perspective of industry practitioners and academics. The panel addressED both opportunities and challenges that lie ahead in integrating advanced AI technologies within Europe’s financial system.

    Chair: Andréa Maechler, Deputy General Manager, Bank for International Settlements

    Panellists:

    Zanna Iscenko, Principal Economist, Google
    Sudeep Kesh, Chief Innovation Officer, S&P Global Ratings
    Robin Lumsdaine, Professor, American University, Member of the ESRB Advisory Scientific Committee
    Dirk Zetzsche, Professor, University of Luxembourg

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=maB_XJw9JMU

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: AI can boost growth and make Europe more competitive

    Source: Google

    There are few more pressing questions facing European governments than how to drive economic growth and make the region more competitive. And it’s clear that one of the most important ways to boost the EU’s competitiveness is by harnessing AI for growth.

    A new report by Implement Consulting Group, commissioned by Google, estimates that generative AI could add €1.2-1.4 trillion to the EU’s GDP in ten years – the equivalent to an annual growth rate of 8%. The report also outlines how AI can significantly boost productivity across various sectors.

    This ability of generative AI to boost economic growth and competitiveness is particularly significant for Europe. According to Mario Draghi’s new report, Europe’s competitiveness has nosedived over the past decades: the EU’s share of global GDP has shrunk from over a quarter in 1980 to just 17% today. US productivity has surpassed the EU’s by 20% in 2022.

    But this report is about more than economic metrics — it’s about how AI can help people be more productive, fuel growth and support long term sustainable jobs of the future. 74% of workers in European countries see productivity-enhancing effects of generative AI, and 43% of workers in European countries expect AI to positively impact their job. Our new report estimates that the majority (61%) of jobs will be augmented by generative AI while around 7% face a long-term transition to automation. As with previous transitions, like the birth of commercial aviation or the worldwide web, new industries and careers will be made entirely possible by AI powered breakthroughs. This impact has the potential to be felt across society — from enhancing the quality and efficiency of public services to unlocking scientific breakthroughs and alleviating labor shortages by freeing up resources and boosting productivity.

    Europe’s productivity gap is largely down to slower technological development, innovation and adoption. As Mario Draghi says, “with the world on the cusp of an AI revolution, Europe cannot afford to remain stuck in the ‘middle technologies and industries’ of the previous century”. To catch up, the EU must unlock its innovative potential.

    A new agenda for AI backed growth

    This is why today, in addition to our Economic report, we’re also releasing our AI Opportunity Agenda: a series of recommendations for governments to seize the full economic and societal potential of AI. The Agenda outlines the need to revisit Europe’s workforce strategy, as well as investment in AI infrastructure and research, adoption and accessibility.

    1. Investing in research and development

    For the EU to truly compete in AI, it needs to make research and development a shared priority, as well as making funding more accessible. Without the right incentives to develop and commercialise AI innovation, Europe is stifling its talent and its chances of launching more home-grown tech unicorns.

    2. Building infrastructure to support innovation

    AI breakthroughs are only possible with the right high-performance computing technologies and data centres — and the renewable energy to support them. To enable AI innovation at scale, the EU will need to allocate more funding to financing such infrastructure — as well as incentivising and enabling the private sector to do the same.

    3. Improving skills and training programmes

    Technological growth will not be effective if people are left behind. Given its diversity, the EU must make sure technology benefits every business, economy and person. To do this, it needs to accelerate digital skills transformation, putting AI skills and education at the centre of a revitalised European Skills Agenda — and adding it to school curriculums.

    4. Promoting widespread adoption

    We ultimately need to ensure that AI is applied and deployed in a universally accessible and useful way. For the private sector, EU policymakers and AI developers must work together to develop outreach strategies to traditional industries and small businesses who have much to gain from AI adoption. For the public sector, member states must double down on existing initiatives to increase the public procurement of AI and developing bolder AI adoption targets.

    Taking action

    Developing good policy and responsible AI will need close coordination between governments, the private sector, academia and civil society. Through our AI Opportunity Initiative and other partnerships we’re committed to working with others to get this right. But, as Mario Draghi highlighted, change is also needed in the regulatory environment. Since 2019, the EU has introduced over 100 pieces of legislation that impact the digital economy and society. It’s not just the sheer number of regulations that’s the challenge – it’s the complexity. Moving from the regulatory-first approach can help to unlock the opportunity of AI.

    In many ways, Europe is well-positioned to seize this moment. AI has the potential to help us build a better, fairer, healthier society — and to support competitiveness and inclusive growth.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI: Hut 8 Announces Early Payoff of Outstanding Loan

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Anchorage Digital converted entire ~$38 million loan balance to common shares at a price of $16.395 per share

    Strengthens Company’s financial position as it advances pipeline of AI and mining infrastructure opportunities

    MIAMI, Oct. 01, 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 announced the conversion of the entire ~$38 million outstanding balance of its subsidiary’s outstanding loan with Anchorage Lending CA, LLC, a subsidiary of Anchor Labs, Inc. d/b/a Anchorage Digital (“Anchorage Digital”), into common stock of the Company (the “Conversion”).

    “Hut 8 stands out for its conviction to innovation — it’s a key reason that we originally backed them with a loan, and it’s the same reason we’ve now converted that debt to equity,” said Nathan McCauley, Co-Founder and CEO of Anchorage Digital. “In an evolving market, Hut 8 has proven that they can adapt to meet the moment and come out stronger — for the benefit of the company and the digital asset ecosystem at large. We value that kind of resilience on our balance sheet, and our new ownership stake makes that clear.”

    “Our relationship with Anchorage Digital has been instrumental to our growth,” said Asher Genoot, CEO of Hut 8. “We are grateful for their continued support as we scale and diversify our business while maintaining an unwavering focus on disciplined and creative capital deployment.

    “With a strengthened balance sheet and decreased leverage, we believe we are even better positioned to advance discussions with prospective counterparties and execute on the development of next-generation mining and AI data centers.”

    Key Transaction Terms

    Anchorage Digital has converted the ~$38 million outstanding balance of the loan at a price of $16.395 per share of common stock of Hut 8 pursuant to a Debt Repayment Agreement (the “Debt Repayment Agreement”). The share price represents a 51% premium to the 20-Day VWAP through September 26, 2024, the day prior to the signing of the Debt Repayment Agreement.

    Upon completion of the Conversion, the outstanding loan and all other related obligations of the Company and its subsidiaries have been satisfied.

    This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor shall there be any sale of any securities in any state or other jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to the registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or other jurisdiction.

    Additional information, including the Debt Repayment Agreement, is available in the Form 8-K that the Company will file with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

    Upcoming Conferences & Events

    • October 7–9, 2024: Yotta 2024
    • October 15, 2024: USC Marshall Energy Business Summit 2024
    • 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

    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 newly announced site in the Texas Panhandle. For more information, visit http://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 Company’s advancement of its AI and mining infrastructure pipeline and the Company’s ability to continue scaling and diversifying its business while maintaining an unwavering focus on disciplined and creative capital deployment.

    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 http://www.sec.gov, and Hut 8’s other continuous disclosure documents which are available under the Company’s SEDAR+ profile at http://www.sedarplus.ca and EDGAR profile at http://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 USA: Biden Administration Announces New Security Assistance Package for Ukraine

    Source: United States Department of Defense

    Today, as part of the surge of assistance that President Biden directed ahead of his meeting with President Zelenskyy, the Department of Defense (DoD) announced a significant new security assistance package to ensure Ukraine has the tools it needs to prevail in its fight against Russian aggression. This security assistance package commits an additional $2.4 billion in support through the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI) that will provide Ukraine with additional air defense, Unmanned Aerial Systems, and air-to-ground munitions, as well as strengthen Ukraine’s defense industrial base and support its maintenance and sustainment requirements. 

    The capabilities in this announcement include:

    • Munitions and support for Ukrainian air defense systems;
    • Air-to-ground munitions;
    • Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) and components to support Ukrainian production of UAS;
    • Counter-UAS equipment;  Unmanned surface vessels;
    • Secure communications equipment;
    • Equipment and materiel to support Ukrainian munitions production; and 
    • Spare parts, maintenance and sustainment support, and other ancillary equipment.

    This is the Biden Administration’s twenty-first USAI package. The United States will continue to work together with some 50 Allies and partners through the Ukraine Defense Contact Group and its associated capability coalitions to provide the support Ukraine needs to win the war.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Canada named as Country of The Year for France’s 2025 Viva Technology 

    Source: Government of Canada News

    News release

    September 26, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

    Today, the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development, announced that Canada has been named the Country of The Year for Viva Technology 2025, the largest technology event in Europe, which is scheduled for June 11 to 14, 2025 in Paris, France. This honour reinforces Canada’s reputation as a worldwide leader in artificial intelligence. Scale AI, Canada’s Global Innovation Cluster focused on Artificial Intelligence (AI), will lead Canada’s business delegation.

    Viva Technology is a major annual technology conference where business leaders, startups, and investors come together to share ideas and showcase innovative technologies. As the Country of The Year, Canada will showcase its expertise to the global community and connect with thousands of visionary startups, investors, organizations, researchers, and media during the ninth edition of one of the world’s biggest tech events. Leveraging advancements in AI can enhance Canada’s economy, increase productivity, and create exciting new opportunities for all Canadians.

    Companies interested in being part of Canada’s delegation to Viva Technology 2025 can express their interest through Scale AI, Canada’s AI Global Innovation Cluster focused on leveraging AI to improve value chains.

    Canada’s participation in Viva Technology 2025 was addressed by Prime Minister Trudeau and French President Macron in their Joint Declaration as President Macron concluded his visit to Canada yesterday. This reflects the strong collaboration between Canada and France in artificial intelligence through initiatives like the Global Partnerships on AI and the Centres of Excellence in Montreal and Paris. Viva Technology 2025 will provide an excellent opportunity to build on our ongoing work with France to strengthen cooperation among governments, organizations, and businesses to deliver technology solutions that are responsible, secure, and grounded in human rights and democratic values.

    Quotes

    “As the Country of The Year at Viva Technology 2025, Canada will stand at the forefront of innovation, showcasing the immense trade benefits that arise from connecting startups, technology leaders, large companies, and investors. Together, Canada and France are not only enhancing global collaboration but also driving a new era of growth and creativity that benefits both of our nations.”

    – Mary Ng, Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development

    “Canada is building an ecosystem where innovation can thrive while ensuring we are developing safe technologies. Canada has been working hard with France to make concrete progress in the development of a robust and responsible AI ecosystem and I look forward to furthering our collaboration as we showcase our progress at this global technology event.”

    – François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry

    Quick facts

    • The commercial relationship between Canada and France is underpinned by the Canada-EU Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), which has been provisionally applied since 2017. 

    • CETA creates opportunities for French and Canadian businesses by eliminating tariffs and increasing the mobility of business people, among other things.

    • Canada and France have worked collaboratively on several initiatives for the responsible use of AI including launching the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI) in June 2020.

    • The Government of Canada announced a Voluntary Code of Conduct on the Responsible Development and Management of Advanced Generative AI Systems in September 2023 and an AI Safety Institute.

    • The Viva Technology 2024 Canadian delegation of 60 organizations was the largest Canadian AI presence ever showcased at an international event.

    Associated links

    Contacts

    Huzaif Qaisar
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development
    343-575-8816
    Huzaif.Qaisar@international.gc.ca

    Media Relations Office
    Global Affairs Canada
    media@international.gc.ca
    Follow us on X (Twitter): @CanadaTrade
    Like us on Facebook: Canada’s international trade – Global Affairs Canada

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI: GGI, co-founded by MixMarvel and Yeeha! Games, showcasing Major Partnerships and GameFi Innovations at Token2049

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, Sept. 26, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Following its successful appearances at Japan’s WebX and Korea Blockchain Week (KBW), GGI, a Web3 group co-founded by MixMarvel and Yeeha! Games, continued to make waves at Token2049 Singapore, one of the largest blockchain conferences of the year. With exciting new partnerships and a strong presence across major side events, GGI demonstrated its ongoing commitment to leading innovation in the Web3 gaming sector.

    Expanding the Ecosystem with New Partners

    At Token2049, GGI unveiled new ecosystem partners, including ArkForge and SOMSOC, further solidifying its position as a key player in the blockchain gaming space. GGI also held a series of game-related side events in collaboration with some of the most influential ecosystems today, including LINE NEXT and TON, where the future of Web3 gaming was explored in depth. These collaborations highlight GGI’s growing influence and its role in bringing together key players in the industry.

    A New Wave of Games on the Horizon

    Since its inception, GGI has consistently pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in Web3 gaming, achieving significant commercial and business expansion. At Token2049, GGI introduced its latest gaming lineup to partners and players, with titles like SimDunk, which recently launched its Pioneer Test, and upcoming games such as Yokai Odyssey and ATMAN. These titles form part of GGI’s broader publishing strategy, which includes 7 Telegram mini-games, 5 large-scale midcore games, and collaborations with 10 indie studios. Each of these games represents GGI’s commitment to offering diverse, high-quality content that bridges the gap between Web2 and Web3 gaming communities.

    Leading at Token2049’s Premier Events

    As a sponsor, GGI took center stage at the InnoBlock Summit, one of the largest side events of Token2049, hosted by the Asia Blockchain Gaming Alliance (ABGA). Alongside over 100 industry leaders, GGI explored application-layer opportunities in the Web3 space, sharing the stage with pioneers like Catizen, Mythical Games, and Seraph to discuss what it takes to succeed in today’s competitive Web3 gaming landscape. Notably, Nancy, CEO of Yeeha! Games and co-founder of GGI, delivered a keynote at the summit, showcasing Yeeha!’s platform and its mission to become the “Epic Games of Web3.” Attendees were particularly excited about Yeeha!’s upcoming AI-driven gaming solutions, including a natively trained GPT that promises to revolutionize Web3 gaming experiences.

    Co-Hosting for Industry Insights and Collaboration

    GGI also co-hosted a major event for Web3 Gaming Builders and VCs alongside LINE NEXT, Kaia, and ABGA, focusing on how to empower the growing APAC gaming community. During the event, GGI highlighted its comprehensive ecosystem, which spans game incubation, publishing, and infrastructure development. By showcasing premium content and impressive growth metrics, GGI reinforced its vision to create high-quality, engaging gaming experiences that bring Web2 players into the Web3 space.

    Spotlight at the Open Art Conference

    Another key highlight for GGI at Token2049 was its participation in the Open Art Conference, hosted by TON Society, TONX, and Blum at the National Gallery Singapore. With over 8,000 registered participants, this event celebrated TON’s growing ecosystem, where GGI has been an early and active supporter. GGI shared insights on how TON, often seen as a dark horse in the GameFi sector, is poised to have a profound impact on the industry. Additionally, GGI introduced the exciting SOMSOC x Yeeha! collaboration, which includes the HOUSEBOY art collection and the cyber-themed basketball game SimDunk, which officially launched its Pioneer Test on the day of the event, receiving an enthusiastic reception from the gaming community.

    GGI’s Commitment to the Future of Web3 Gaming

    Token2049 Singapore solidified GGI’s reputation as a trailblazer in Web3 gaming, as the company continues to build sustainable partnerships and deliver premium gaming experiences. Amid the challenges and opportunities in this fast-evolving industry, GGI remains dedicated to injecting vitality into the blockchain gaming sector by offering innovative and engaging content for both Web2 and Web3 players.

    With its continued growth and collaboration with top industry partners, GGI is set to shape the future of Web3 gaming for years to come. As it looks ahead to new game launches, partnerships, and innovations, GGI is well-positioned to lead the next wave of GameFi success.

    About GGI

    GGI, the leading Web3 group co-founded by MixMarvel and Yeeha! Games, serving as the definitive gateway to gaming for builders and mass players with cutting-edge infrastructure, platform and top-tier investment, incubation, and publishing services.

    Affiliated Brands:

    • ️MixMarvel
    • ️Yeeha
    • ️Rangers Protocol

    GGI Pillar Services:

    • Investment
    • Content Incubation
    • Game Publishing & Distribution Platform
    • Infrastructure

    Contact Details:
    Connie Wu
    Marketing Manager
    connie.w@yeehagames.com

    ArkForge
    Fay Ying, Co-Founder
    fay@arkforge.gg

    MixMarvel
    Alina Zarelua
    alina@mixmarvel.com

    SOMSOC Gallery
    dongshan@somsoc.jp

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by Yeeha! Games. The statements, views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the content provider. The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities. Please conduct your own research and invest at your own risk.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/cc7c6033-cce5-4389-963e-139871a16de0

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2633b4ef-ca1f-4b8b-b1fe-2a585cbf32a7

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Nigerian Man Pleads Guilty After Extradition to Participating in Romance Scams and Other Fraud Schemes Targeting Elderly Victims

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (c)

    Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced that ISAIAH OKERE plead guilty today before U.S. District Judge Lewis Liman to charges stemming from his participation in an international conspiracy to defraud at least 15 victims of romance schemes, lottery scams, and business email compromise schemes.

    U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “Isaiah Okere and his co-conspirators preyed on elderly and vulnerable victims, some of whom lost their entire life savings.  Even though he operated his scams from a country halfway around the world, this Office’s global reach ensures that he will be held accountable in the United States for his crimes.” 

    According to Count One of the Information to which OKERE pled guilty and other statements and submissions made in Court:         

    From at least in or about 2015 up to and including November 2019, OKERE and co-conspirator Timy Hakim conspired with members of the “Black Axe” transnational criminal organization to engage in fraudulent schemes that left at least 15 people and entities with over a million dollars in losses.  OKERE facilitated the laundering of proceeds of three types of fraud schemes, a “Romance Scheme,” a “Lottery Scheme,” and a “BEC Fraud Scheme.” Through the Romance Scheme, a vulnerable individual was led to believe she or he was in a romantic online relationship with a perpetrator of the Scheme when, in fact, the perpetrator merely used this as a mechanism to build the victim’s trust and solicit the victim’s money.  Through the Lottery Scheme, the scheme participants informed certain victims that they had won a cash prize but first needed to make certain payments to access the funds.  Through the BEC Fraud Scheme, the scheme participants induced a corporate victim located in Manhattan to release company funds under fraudulent pretenses by impersonating the founder of the company.

    OKERE used accounts under false identities to communicate directly with his U.S. victims.  He also controlled multiple foreign bank accounts in South Africa that received funds from victims targeted by these schemes.  

    At least 15 individual and corporate victims lost money as part of OKERE, Hakim, and their co-conspirators’ schemes.  They include vulnerable, isolated, and elderly victims who entered into relationships after the deaths of their spouses and, over a period of several years, were induced to drain their entire retirement savings and take out loans from family and friends.  Many victims experienced severe emotional harm, including a woman who reported becoming suicidal after losing her retirement savings to this scheme.

    *                *                *

    OKERE, 42, a citizen of the Republic of Nigeria, was arrested in South Africa on the basis of a provisional arrest warrant in December 2021 and was extradited on August 23, 2024.  He pled guilty today to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison.  

    On September 27, 2023, co-defendant Timy Hakim was sentenced to two years in prison and was ordered to pay $1,414,043 in restitution and forfeit $671,452.

    The maximum potential sentences are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge.

    Mr. Williams praised the outstanding investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Mr. Williams also thanked the South African Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, National Prosecuting Authority of South Africa, and the South African Police Service.  The U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs provided significant assistance in securing the defendant’s extradition from South Africa.

    The criminal case is being prosecuted by the Office’s Illicit Finance and Money Laundering Unit.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Vladislav Vainberg is in charge of the prosecution.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: President Erdoğan’s Address to the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly

    Source: Republic of Turkey

    ADDRESS TO THE 79TH SESSION OF THE UNITED NATIONS GENERAL ASSEMBLY
    by
    THE PRESIDENT of the REPUBLIC of TÜRKİYE,
    H.E. RECEP TAYYİP ERDOĞAN
    (24 SEPTEMBER 2024, NEW YORK)

    Mr. President, 
    Distinguished Heads of State and Government,
    Mr. Secretary General,
    Esteemed Delegates,
    I greet you with my most heartfelt feelings and respect on behalf of myself, my country and my nation.
    I am very pleased to have the opportunity to address the United Nations General Assembly once again today.
    I wish the 79th General Assembly to be beneficial to our countries and to all humanity.
    I would like to congratulate Mr. Dennis FRANCIS, who has completed his Presidency of the General Assembly, and I wish success to Mr. Philemon YANG, who assumed this duty.
    I would like to express our pleasure in seeing the Representative of the friendly and brotherly Palestine in the place he deserves among the member states, after lengthy struggles.
    I wish this historic step to be the last stage on the way to Palestine’s membership in the United Nations.
    I also invite other states, that have not yet done so, to recognize the State of Palestine as soon as possible and take their place on the right side of history at this very critical period.
    Distinguished Delegates…
    We are living through and trying to manage the crises minute by minute that most of my friends here watch on TV screens.
    Therefore, I am addressing you today as the leader of a country that is not far from the tensions, but right in their epicentre.
    Even if some feel uncomfortable, even if some will once again criticize us, I wish to speak out certain truths openly today, in the name of humanity, from the common rostrum of humanity.
    Let’s consider… the United Nations, under whose roof we are now, was established to maintain international peace and security after the Second World War, during which millions of people lost their lives.
    With the establishment of the United Nations, expectations for global stability, peace and justice blossomed again, and hopes for peace revived.
    However, we observe with regret that in recent years, the United Nations is struggling to fulfill its founding mission and is gradually turning into a dysfunctional, unwieldy and inert structure.
    We need the values represented by the maxim “THE WORLD IS BIGGER THAN FIVE”, more and more nowadays.
    We witness that international peace and security are too important to be left to the arbitrariness of the “privileged five”.
    The most dramatic example of this is the massacre that has been going on in Gaza for 353 days.
    More than 41 thousand Palestinians have lost their lives in the ongoing Israeli attacks since October 7.
    41 thousand people, 41 thousand lives brutally taken away, most of whom are children and women.
    Similarly, the whereabouts of more than 10 thousand Gazans, most of whom are children, is unknown.
    In the same way, about 100 thousand people have been injured and become disabled.
    172 journalists have been killed while trying to do their job under difficult conditions.
    More than 500 paramedics working to save lives have been killed.
    Humanitarian aid workers and more than 210 United Nations personnel, who rushed to the rescue of the people of Gaza struggling with hunger and thirst, have been killed.
    They hit 820 mosques and 3 churches that should be protected even at war.
    They hit tens of hospitals, hundreds of schools, and more than 130 ambulances carrying patients.
    By tearing down the Charter of the United Nations at the United Nations rostrum, they shamelessly challenged the whole world, all the conscientious people right from here, from this rostrum.
    Friends…
    The leaked images from the prisons that Israel has turned into “concentration camps” indicate very clearly what kind of persecution we are facing.
    As a result of the Israeli attacks, Gaza has become the largest cemetery for children and women in the world.
    More than 17 thousand children have been the targets of Israeli bullets and bombs.
    HİND RAJAB was only 6 years old.
    Their vehicle was hit by Israeli forces while she was searching for a safe place with her relatives.
    Her uncle, aunt-in-law, and cousins all died, only she survived.
    For 12 days she waited desperately to be rescued.
    She waited for a helping hand to reach out to her for 12 days, saying, “WILL YOU COME TO PICK ME UP? I AM SCARED!”
    Despite the level of development which our world has reached, despite the technology at our disposal; despite our organisations with huge budgets employing thousands of personnel under their roofs, unfortunately, as humanity of 8 billion, we have not been able to save a 6-year-old girl, an injured sparrow fluttering in front of our eyes.
    Hundreds of Gazan children have died so far because they were not able to find a bite of dry bread, a sip of water or a bowl of soup, and they are still dying.
    Not only children are dying in Gaza; the United Nations system is also dying, the truth is dying, the values that the west claims to defend are dying, the hopes of humanity to live in a fairer world are dying one by one.
    I am asking you frankly from here…
    HUMAN RIGHTS ORGANISATIONS!
    Are the ones in Gaza, the ones in the West Bank not human beings? 
    The children in Palestine, do they not have the right to study, live, and play in the streets?
    INTERNATIONAL PRESS ORGANISATIONS!
    The journalists that Israel massacred on live TV, whose offices were raided, are they not your colleagues?
    THE UNITED NATIONS SECURITY COUNCIL!
    What are you waiting for to prevent the genocide in Gaza and to say “stop” to this cruelty, this barbarism?
    What more are you waiting for to stop the massacre network that endangers also the lives of its own citizens along with the Palestinian people and drags the entire region into war for the sake of its political prospects?
    AND THOSE WHO UNCONDITIONALLY SUPPORT ISRAEL!
    For how long will you continue to bear the shame of looking on this massacre, of being accomplices in this atrocity?
    Distinguished Friends…
    While children are dying in Gaza, Ramallah, Lebanon, and babies are dying in incubators, unfortunately, the international community has also given a very bad account of itself.
    What is happening in Palestine is an indicator of a huge moral breakdown.
    I believe that all the peoples of the world, leaders, international organisations should reflect on this painful picture.
    I also want to hereby express a truth loud and clear.
    Ignoring basic human rights, the Israeli government, is practicing ethnic cleansing, an overt genocide against a nation, a people, and occupying their territory step by step.
    Palestinians, whose freedom, independence and the most basic rights have been usurped, are very rightly exercising their “LEGITIMATE RIGHT OF RESISTANCE” against this occupation and these ethnic cleansing activities.
    The rightful resistance of the Palestinian people against those who occupy their land is too noble, honourable, heroic to be portrayed as illegitimate.
    From here, I wholeheartedly salute once again my Palestinian brothers who defend their country at the cost of their lives.
    The only reason for Israel’s aggression against the Palestinian people is the unconditional support of a handful of countries to Israel.
    The countries that have an influence over Israel are openly becoming accomplices of this massacre with the policy of “run with the hare, hunt with the hounds”.
    Those who are supposedly working for a ceasefire in the limelight continue to send weapons and ammunition to Israel behind the stage, so that it can continue its massacres.
    This is inconsistency and insincerity.
    Please consider … there’s a document that has been going back and forth since May.
    HAMAS has repeatedly declared its acceptance of the ceasefire proposal.
    However, the Israeli government has very clearly indicated that it is the party that does not want peace by continuously hampering the process, constantly finding excuses, perfidiously killing the interlocutor it negotiated with at a time when the ceasefire was closest.
    There should be no more credit given to Israel’s distraction and deception moves.
    In an environment where United Nations Security Council Resolution 2735 is not being implemented, coercive measures against Israel should be put on the agenda.
    Israel’s attitude has once again shown that it is essential for the international community to develop a protection mechanism for Palestinian civilians.
    Just as HITLER was stopped by the alliance of humanity 70 years ago, Netanyahu and his murder network must be stopped by the “alliance of humanity”.
    We believe that the power of the General Assembly to make recommendations on the use of force, as it exists in the “Uniting for Peace Resolution dated 1950”, should definitely be considered in this process.
    An immediate and permanent ceasefire should be achieved, a hostage-prisoner exchange should be carried out, and humanitarian aid should be delivered to Gaza in an unhindered and uninterrupted way.
    We have to extend a helping hand to the people of Gaza trying to survive, especially before winter when conditions will deteriorate.
    Please consider, 70 percent of the water resources and 75 percent of the ovens in Gaza have been destroyed until now.
    95 percent of health centres have been partially or completely damaged.
    150 thousand houses were completely destroyed, 200 thousand houses were partially destroyed, 80 thousand houses became uninhabitable.
    Infectious diseases, especially polio and hepatitis, are gradually increasing.
    The people of Gaza can only reach a quarter of the amount of aid they need.
    As Türkiye, we have maintained and are continuing to maintain our humanitarian aid activities for our Palestinian brothers since the first day.
    With the amount of aid exceeding 60 thousand tons, Türkiye is the country that sends the highest amount of aid to Gaza. 
    In the same way, by stopping commercial transactions with Israel, we have demonstrated our sensitivity on this issue.
    We also stand with the people and government of Lebanon, where Israel has stepped up its attacks in recent days.
    Now we can all see this truth:
    Our conscience cannot be at peace until those who massacred 41 thousand people are held accountable for the crimes they committed, from the person who gives the order to the ones who pull the trigger, and drop the bomb.
    The bill for the billions of dollars of damage at the destroyed, wiped out, demolished cities must and will definitely be compensated by the perpetrators.
    We support the lawsuit filed by the Republic of South Africa at the International Court of Justice to ensure that the crimes committed by Israel do not go unpunished.
    We will take all necessary steps to ensure that justice is served in this case in which we have applied for intervention.
    We will make every legal struggle to find justice for our daughter Ayşenur Ezgi Eygi, who was shot in the head by Israeli soldiers during a peaceful protest in Nablus.
    Although there is an urgent need for a ceasefire in Gaza, the main issue is the occupation of Palestinian territories by Israel.
    Creation of an independent, sovereign and geographically contiguous Palestinian State on the basis of the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital can no longer be delayed.
    I would like it to be known that we are also closely following the increasing attacks against our first Qibla, Al-Masjid al-Aqsa and Al-Haram Al-Sharif.
    While saying all this as Tayyip Erdoğan, I never speak with empty words from this rostrum.  
    Here, I am speaking with the courage that I get from my history and the conscientious and fair stance of my ancestors. 
    Because we are a nation that has always been on the side of the oppressed and stood against oppressor and tyranny throughout history.
    We had welcomed the Jews who escaped from the inquisition 500 years ago and the Jews who escaped from Hitler’s concentration camps.
    I tell it frankly; as a country and as a nation, we have no hostility towards the people of Israel.
    We are against ANTI-SEMITISM in the same way that we are against the targeting of Muslims just because of their beliefs.
    Our problem is with the policies of massacre of the Israeli government.
    Our problem is again with the oppressor and tyranny, just as it was 5 centuries ago.
    Everyone should know that we do not refrain from crying out the truth.
    Even if some feel uncomfortable, we are not afraid to tell the truth.
    Insha’Allah, we will continue to stand by the righteous until the end and speak of what we know as truth, even if it is harsh. 
    Hereby, I would also like to thank all the brave people who show solidarity with the Palestinian people without distinction of faith, country, language or religion, and raise their voice against the massacre in Gaza by filling the streets almost every week.
    Distinguished Delegates…
    Unfortunately, in the 14th year of the conflict, Syria is also still far from stability.
    The economic and humanitarian situation in the country, which is in the grip of terrorist and separatist organizations remains dire.
    We hope that the political process will be advanced and national reconciliation will be achieved on the basis of United Nations Security Council Resolution 2254.
    We are determined to maintain our position in favour of a realistic dialogue with sincerity.
    While our neighbour Iraq continues its struggle against terrorism, it is taking decisive steps towards development, reconstruction and reintegration with the region.
    The international community should support these efforts of Iraq.
    It is important in this context to implement initiatives that will benefit the entire region, such as the Development Road Project.
    The success of all these efforts depends on the elimination of the terrorist threat in Iraq, especially from the PKK.
    We believe that taking steps towards reviving the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action with our other neighbour Iran will contribute to the establishment of the environment of trust and stability in the region. 
    As the third year of the war in Ukraine comes to an end, we are still far from reaching a just and lasting peace.
    As the armament race accelerates, the field of diplomacy is gradually narrowing.
    We will further increase our support to the efforts to end the war through diplomacy and dialogue, on the basis of Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.
    In this process, we will continue to meticulously implement the Montreux Convention.
    We support the peace process between Azerbaijan and Armenia, and we hope that the work will be completed with good news as soon as possible.
    We are also taking mutually positive steps on the Türkiye-Armenia track.
    The developments that can be achieved in the Azerbaijan-Armenia peace process will also have a positive impact on the Türkiye-Armenia normalization process.
    Esteemed Friends…
    We play a constructive role for the prosperity and peace of the Balkans, of which we are an integral part, and act in close cooperation with all actors in the region. 
    As a member of the Steering Board of the Peace Implementation Council, we emphasize the importance of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s sovereignty, political unity and territorial integrity on every platform, and we continue to contribute to the EUFOR-ALTHEA Operation.
    We successfully continue the KFOR command that we assumed last year and support the Belgrade-Prishtina Dialogue process.
    We want to see the Aegean Sea and the Eastern Mediterranean as a region of stability and prosperity where the legitimate interests of all parties concerned are respected.
    The limitation of maritime jurisdiction areas in accordance with international law, freedom and safety of navigation, and the development of cooperation, especially on maritime trade issues, are to the common interest of the entire region.
    Türkiye is ready for constructive cooperation on all issues, especially energy and environment.
    We expect the same approach from our neighbours.
    As the country with the longest coastline in the Eastern Mediterranean, Türkiye’s key role is undeniable.
    Türkiye has rights to the north and west of the Island of Cyprus in the declared continental shelf and Turkish Cypriots have rights all around the Island.
    It has been 50 years since the Cyprus Peace Operation and 61 years since the Cyprus issue emerged as a result of the usurpation of the partnership state by Greek Cypriots.
    From that day to this, peace and tranquillity have prevailed on the Island.
    It has always been the Turkish Cypriots and Türkiye that have shown a sincere will to bring about a just, permanent and sustainable solution to the Cyprus issue.
    The federation model has now completely lost its validity.
    There are two separate states and two separate peoples on the island.
    The sovereign equality and equal international status of the Turkish Cypriots, which are their inherent rights, should be reaffirmed, and the isolation should now come to an end.
    Today, I once again call on the international community to recognize the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus and establish with it diplomatic, political and economic relations.
    We provide active support to the establishment of stability in Libya and the preservation of the unity and integrity of the country.
    We call on all states to take a sincere stand by Libya during this sensitive period and to contribute to the establishment of trust between the parties.
    We need to exert more efforts to end the conflicts in Sudan.
    We all have a responsibility to deliver humanitarian aid to millions of Sudanese displaced due to conflicts.
    Africa has a very huge potential with its young and dynamic population, rich natural resources and fertile extensive lands.
    On the basis of the principles of equal partnership and mutual respect, we support the Continent’s peace, stability and development efforts with the African peoples.
    We will continue to be in full solidarity with our African brothers and sisters.
    We are deepening our engagement with regional organizations, such as the Indian Ocean Rim Association, the Pacific Islands Forum and particularly ASEAN.
    We maintain our will to develop our relations with BRICS, which brings together emerging economies.
    We share a deep-rooted history with the Central Asian countries; we further strengthen our cooperation on bilateral and multilateral grounds.
    Our Organisation of Turkic States is increasingly turning into a centre of attraction.
    The Organisation is becoming an exemplary model of cooperation, also with the contributions of observer members Hungary and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.
    As the Turkic world, we will further strengthen our unity and solidarity.
    Within the framework of respect for China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, we are in close dialogue with China to protect the fundamental rights and freedoms of the Uighur Turks, with whom we have strong historical, cultural and human ties.
    We are trying to advance the friendly ties we have established with all the countries in Latin America and the Caribbean to a further stage.
    Distinguished Delegates…
    We are obliged to work together to eliminate global injustice.
    The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals’ notion of “leave no one behind” is a guide for these efforts.
    As one of the countries that provide the highest aid in proportion to its national income, Türkiye’s activities contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.
    We support the activities that will ensure fair, inclusive growth and development on all international platforms, especially within the G20.
    We believe that all nations should benefit equally from the transformative power of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence.
    The United Nations Technology Bank for the Least Developed Countries that we host is a concrete manifestation of our efforts in this direction.
    The “cyber terrorist attacks” perpetrated against Lebanon last week demonstrated how these technologies can at the same time turn into a fatal weapon.
    We address climate change with a similar approach.
    No country can cope with the emission reduction and adaptation process to climate change alone.
    The most important issues for developing countries are financing, technology transfer and capacity building.
    I believe that the COP29 Climate Summit to be held in Baku will contribute to the solution of these issues.
    With the vision of a more sustainable and cleaner world, we have carried the Zero Waste Movement, which we launched under the auspices of my Spouse, Mrs. Emine Erdoğan, to a global level with the resolution co-sponsored by 105 countries and adopted unanimously at the United Nations General Assembly.
    Hereby, I invite all countries, international organisations and non-governmental organisations to become partners in our movement.
    We see that Islamophobia, xenophobia and racism are enveloping the world like a poison ivy.
    Hardly a day goes by that we do not witness attacks on mosques and our holy book, the Holy Quran.
    In the middle of Europe, people’s houses are being set on fire; their lives are being targeted; their most fundamental rights are being usurped because of their ethnic and religious identities.
    No one can ignore this growing danger any longer.
    As stipulated in the resolution adopted on 15 March 2024, we expect the appointment of a “Special Envoy for Combating Islamophobia” at the United Nations as soon as possible.
    Distinguished Friends…
    Today I would like to draw your attention once again to a danger that I raised at this rostrum last year.
    The attacks against the family institution, which is the basic pillar of society, are intensifying.
    The disgrace staged at the opening of the 2024 Olympic Games has revealed the dimensions of the threat we face as humanity.
    A sports event followed by innocent children and hundreds of millions of people of all ages and faiths has been used, in a very ugly manner, for degenderization propaganda.
    Those wicked scenes have deeply wounded not only the Catholic world, the Christian world, but also Muslims and everyone who respects the sacred.
    The issue of desexualisation is now turning into a global imposition rather than a “preference”, literally a war against the sacred and the creation.
    Anyone who raises a voice against this destruction project and shows the slightest reaction is silenced and becomes the target of lynching campaigns.
    Türkiye is determined to break this siege and resist this climate of fear at all cost.
    For this purpose, we became a member of the United Nations Group of Friends of the Family.
    Insha’Allah, we will not hold back from defending the family, the human being and the creation in solidarity with other member states.
    I invite the countries that share the same concerns with us to support this struggle.
    With these thoughts, I wish that the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly will be beneficial for all humanity.
    I salute you all once again with affection and respect.
    May you all remain in good health…

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: N.C. American Indian Heritage Commission Receives Grant to Fund Oral History Project

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: N.C. American Indian Heritage Commission Receives Grant to Fund Oral History Project

    N.C. American Indian Heritage Commission Receives Grant to Fund Oral History Project
    jejohnson6

    The North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) is excited to announce a new oral history project, supported by a $141,264 Public Engagement with Historical Records Grant from the National Historical Publications and Records Commission.

    “Oral histories are an integral part of our traditions,” said Kerry Bird, Director of the North American Indian Heritage Commission. “This grant will allow us to expand our efforts to collect these stories while our elders are alive to tell them.”

    The grant will fund the North Carolina American Indian Oral History Project, which aims to enhance the visibility and understanding of American Indian communities in North Carolina. This project, a collaborative effort between DNCR and the North Carolina American Indian Heritage Commission, will focus on the eight state-recognized tribes: the Coharie, Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, Haliwa-Saponi, Lumbee, Meherrin, Occaneechi Band of Saponi Nation, Sappony, and Waccamaw Siouan.

    In partnership with the North Carolina Native American Youth Organization, the project will also train American Indian youth in how to properly collect, document, and preserve the rich narratives and cultural traditions of their communities. Additionally, a guidebook will be developed to assist future generations in collecting and sharing American Indian oral histories, ensuring the preservation of ancestral memories and cultural practices for years to come.

    About The National Historical Publications and Records Commission (NHPRC)
    The National Historical Publications and Records Commission (NHPRC), a statutory body affiliated with the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), supports a wide range of activities to preserve, publish, and encourage the use of documentary sources, created in every medium ranging from quill pen to computer, relating to the history of the United States.

    About the North Carolina American Indian Heritage Commission (NCAIHC)
    Established in 2021, the NCAIHC advises and assists the Secretary of DNCR in the preservation, interpretation, and promotion of American Indian history, arts, customs, and culture. The NCAIHC works closely with its sister agencies under DNCR to ensure American Indian narratives are included in interpretation at statewide museums and historic sites, that they are culturally sensitive, and that American Indian communities are involved in programs and outreach. The NCAIHC is instrumental in promoting American Indian cultural visibility throughout the State of North Carolina.

    About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
    The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina – its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. Through its programs, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency.

    The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.
    Sep 24, 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Ambassador Louise de Sousa receives new Chevening scholarship recipients

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Three Chileans will travel to the United Kingdom to study master’s degrees in London, Cambridge and Edinburgh thanks to the British Foreign Office Scholarship.

    Ambassador Louise de Sousa with recipients of the Chevening Scholarship. The call for those interested in applying for the Chevening Scholarship 2025-26 will remain open until 4 November at 20.00 hrs.

    The British Ambassador to Chile, Louise de Sousa, met with the recipients of the Chevening Scholarship to study a Master’s degree in the United Kingdom.

    The Chevening Scholarship is awarded to people from diverse backgrounds who can demonstrate the commitment and skills necessary to become future leaders or changemakers in their country of origin.

    This year, three Chilean women and one Chilean man will travel to begin their studies at British universities in September. They are Bárbara Ferrer, who will study a Master of Science in Data and Artificial Intelligence Ethics en la University of Edinburgh; Mariana Bernasconi, who will study a Master of Philosophy en Multi-disciplinary Gender Studies at the University of Cambridge; Melissa Jeldes, who will study a Master of Science in Social Innovation and Entrepreneurship at the London School of Economics; and Sebastián Mozó, who will study a Master of Science in Regulation at the same university.

    Louise de Sousa, British Ambassador to Chile, says: “There is no such thing as a ‘typical’ Chevening scholar. We value energy, a broad perspective, curiosity, compassion, a clear vision of the future and the ability to achieve your goals. If you identify with these characteristics, then you are very likely to fit into our community of more than 57,000 alumni worldwide.

    Agustín Riesco, Chevening 2023 scholar, who returned to Chile after studying a master’s degree in Public Policy at the London School of Economics and Political Science, also shared this vision: “The Chevening scholarship allowed me to experience a unique opportunity, not only academically, but also to be able to live with my family for a year in London, one of the most fascinating cities in the world. Chevening is much more than a scholarship, it is a network that supports you and makes you live a unique experience for a year”, he said.

    Applicants must present a realistic and achievable idea to bring about positive change in their country, and be able to demonstrate how a Master’s degree in the UK will help them achieve their goal. The Scholarship offers full financial support for scholars to study any eligible Masters degree at over 150 UK universities, plus access to a wide range of exclusive academic, professional and cultural experiences.

    Applicants must present a realistic and achievable idea for positive change in their country, and be able to demonstrate how a Master’s degree in the UK will help them achieve their goal. The Scholarship offers full financial support for scholars to study any eligible Master’s degree at over 150 British universities, plus access to a wide range of exclusive academic, professional and cultural experiences.

    Since the programme was launched in 1983, more than 57,000 professionals have advanced their careers through Chevening. By the 2025/2026 academic year, there are approximately 1,500 scholarships available worldwide, demonstrating the UK’s commitment to developing tomorrow’s leaders.

    Applications open

    Chevening is open for applications until 4 November 2024 at 8pm in Chile. For information on eligibility criteria and scholarship details, please visit http://www.chevening.org.

    Notes to editors

    Chevening Scholarships are the UK government’s global scholarship programme, funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and partner organisations. The scholarships fund one-year Masters degrees at British universities for people with potential to become future leaders, decision-makers and opinion-formers.

    Chevening began in 1983 and has grown into a prestigious international scholarship programme. Chevening scholars come from more than 160 countries and territories around the world. In the last five years, Chevening has awarded more than 8,000 scholarships. There are more than 57,000 Chevening Alumni worldwide who form an influential and prestigious global network.

    Further information

    For more information about the activities of the British Embassy in Santiago, follow us on:

    Updates to this page

    Published 26 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Mark Cuban Foundation and Florida Power & Light Company Bring Free AI Bootcamp to South Florida Teens

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    JUNO BEACH, Fla., Sept. 26, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Time is running out to apply to participate in the Mark Cuban Foundation Artificial Intelligence (AI) Bootcamp hosted by Florida Power & Light Company (FPL). Applications for the no-cost bootcamp are closing Sept. 30.

    The Mark Cuban Foundation, in partnership with FPL, is bringing the only AI camp of its kind, free of charge, to high school students in South Florida. With a custom and highly relevant curriculum focused on teaching students about the latest developments in the world of AI and Generative AI, the camp will provide the tools to make these technologies work for them and promises to educate, inspire and fuel the next generation of information technology (IT) professionals.

    The program aims to provide students with a foundational understanding of AI and its applications to future careers. Students can select from six tracks: healthcare, arts and entertainment, business and entrepreneurship, computer science, sports science, or education and career readiness. Driven by the belief that fostering interest in AI at a young age is crucial for preparing the next generation, the AI Bootcamps are introductory and accessible to students in 9-12 grade with an interest in technology. Students do not need any familiarity with computer science or programming to attend.

    This free AI Bootcamp is hosted for economically disadvantaged high school students. Students are provided with lunch and a snack, transportation assistance, and technology equipment during the bootcamp.

    “As AI continues to become an undeniable force in all of our lives, it’s crucial that we open the door to this knowledge, especially to young people who want to explore it,” said Mark Cuban, founder. “While technology expands and becomes more advanced, it becomes more critical that we ensure our students are prepared when they apply for schools or jobs in the future. Thanks to our work with FPL, the bootcamp will offer an avenue to explore this fascinating field of technology to any student, no matter their means.”

    This year’s bootcamp, taking place at FPL’s James L. Robo campus in Palm Beach Gardens on Nov. 2, 9 and 16, will be hosted and staffed by FPL.

    FPL is one of more than 30 companies selected to host camps across the U.S.

    “We’re honored to host these workshops,” said Grace Kurian, VP, IT technology solutions and operations at NextEra Energy, Inc., who led the launch of the AI Bootcamp in Palm Beach County. “South Florida continues to grow into a vast tech hub. I’m grateful for the investment by the Mark Cuban Foundation and FPL, which is strengthening our communities and opportunities for our future tech leaders of tomorrow.”

    The Sept. 30 deadline is approaching quickly. Do not miss your chance – submit your application now, as spaces are limited.

    Apply for the bootcamp at: markcubanai.org.

    Watch Mark Cuban’s message about Mark Cuban Foundation’s AI bootcamps and access the full media kit here.

    To learn more, visit markcubanai.org.

    Media Contact:
    Bishop.wash@markcubanai.org

    This bootcamp is facilitated with support from Mark Cuban Foundation AI Bootcamp Program’s media partner, Notified, a globally trusted technology partner for investor relations, public relations and marketing professionals.

    About Mark Cuban Foundation’s AI Bootcamp Initiative
    The Mark Cuban Foundation is a 501(c)(3) private non-profit led by entrepreneur and investor Mark Cuban. The AI Bootcamps Program at MCF seeks to inspire young people with emerging technology so that they can create more equitable futures for themselves and their communities. Over 3 consecutive Saturdays underserved 9th -12th grade students learn what AI is and isn’t, where they already interact with AI in their own lives, the ethical implications of AI systems, and much more. Learn more about the no-cost AI Bootcamp program at markcubanai.org.

    About FPL
    As America’s largest electric utility, Florida Power & Light Company serves more customers and sells more power than any other utility, providing clean, affordable, reliable electricity to approximately 5.9 million accounts, or more than 12 million people. FPL operates one of the most fuel efficient and cleanest power generation fleets in the U.S and in 2022 won the ReliabilityOne® National Reliability Award for the seventh time in the last nine years. The company was also recognized by Escalent in 2022 as one of the most trusted U.S. electric utilities for the ninth consecutive year. FPL is a subsidiary of Juno Beach, Florida-based NextEra Energy, Inc. (NYSE: NEE), a clean energy company widely recognized for its efforts in sustainability, corporate responsibility, ethics and compliance, and diversity. NextEra Energy is also the parent company of NextEra Energy Resources, LLC, which, together with its affiliated entities, is the world’s largest generator of renewable energy from the wind and sun and a world leader in battery storage. For more information about NextEra Energy companies, visit these websites: http://www.NextEraEnergy.com, http://www.FPL.com, http://www.NextEraEnergyResources.com.  

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Mark Cuban Foundation and Florida Power & Light Company Bring Free AI Bootcamp to South Florida Teens

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    JUNO BEACH, Fla., Sept. 26, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Time is running out to apply to participate in the Mark Cuban Foundation Artificial Intelligence (AI) Bootcamp hosted by Florida Power & Light Company (FPL). Applications for the no-cost bootcamp are closing Sept. 30.

    The Mark Cuban Foundation, in partnership with FPL, is bringing the only AI camp of its kind, free of charge, to high school students in South Florida. With a custom and highly relevant curriculum focused on teaching students about the latest developments in the world of AI and Generative AI, the camp will provide the tools to make these technologies work for them and promises to educate, inspire and fuel the next generation of information technology (IT) professionals.

    The program aims to provide students with a foundational understanding of AI and its applications to future careers. Students can select from six tracks: healthcare, arts and entertainment, business and entrepreneurship, computer science, sports science, or education and career readiness. Driven by the belief that fostering interest in AI at a young age is crucial for preparing the next generation, the AI Bootcamps are introductory and accessible to students in 9-12 grade with an interest in technology. Students do not need any familiarity with computer science or programming to attend.

    This free AI Bootcamp is hosted for economically disadvantaged high school students. Students are provided with lunch and a snack, transportation assistance, and technology equipment during the bootcamp.

    “As AI continues to become an undeniable force in all of our lives, it’s crucial that we open the door to this knowledge, especially to young people who want to explore it,” said Mark Cuban, founder. “While technology expands and becomes more advanced, it becomes more critical that we ensure our students are prepared when they apply for schools or jobs in the future. Thanks to our work with FPL, the bootcamp will offer an avenue to explore this fascinating field of technology to any student, no matter their means.”

    This year’s bootcamp, taking place at FPL’s James L. Robo campus in Palm Beach Gardens on Nov. 2, 9 and 16, will be hosted and staffed by FPL.

    FPL is one of more than 30 companies selected to host camps across the U.S.

    “We’re honored to host these workshops,” said Grace Kurian, VP, IT technology solutions and operations at NextEra Energy, Inc., who led the launch of the AI Bootcamp in Palm Beach County. “South Florida continues to grow into a vast tech hub. I’m grateful for the investment by the Mark Cuban Foundation and FPL, which is strengthening our communities and opportunities for our future tech leaders of tomorrow.”

    The Sept. 30 deadline is approaching quickly. Do not miss your chance – submit your application now, as spaces are limited.

    Apply for the bootcamp at: markcubanai.org.

    Watch Mark Cuban’s message about Mark Cuban Foundation’s AI bootcamps and access the full media kit here.

    To learn more, visit markcubanai.org.

    Media Contact:
    Bishop.wash@markcubanai.org

    This bootcamp is facilitated with support from Mark Cuban Foundation AI Bootcamp Program’s media partner, Notified, a globally trusted technology partner for investor relations, public relations and marketing professionals.

    About Mark Cuban Foundation’s AI Bootcamp Initiative
    The Mark Cuban Foundation is a 501(c)(3) private non-profit led by entrepreneur and investor Mark Cuban. The AI Bootcamps Program at MCF seeks to inspire young people with emerging technology so that they can create more equitable futures for themselves and their communities. Over 3 consecutive Saturdays underserved 9th -12th grade students learn what AI is and isn’t, where they already interact with AI in their own lives, the ethical implications of AI systems, and much more. Learn more about the no-cost AI Bootcamp program at markcubanai.org.

    About FPL
    As America’s largest electric utility, Florida Power & Light Company serves more customers and sells more power than any other utility, providing clean, affordable, reliable electricity to approximately 5.9 million accounts, or more than 12 million people. FPL operates one of the most fuel efficient and cleanest power generation fleets in the U.S and in 2022 won the ReliabilityOne® National Reliability Award for the seventh time in the last nine years. The company was also recognized by Escalent in 2022 as one of the most trusted U.S. electric utilities for the ninth consecutive year. FPL is a subsidiary of Juno Beach, Florida-based NextEra Energy, Inc. (NYSE: NEE), a clean energy company widely recognized for its efforts in sustainability, corporate responsibility, ethics and compliance, and diversity. NextEra Energy is also the parent company of NextEra Energy Resources, LLC, which, together with its affiliated entities, is the world’s largest generator of renewable energy from the wind and sun and a world leader in battery storage. For more information about NextEra Energy companies, visit these websites: http://www.NextEraEnergy.com, http://www.FPL.com, http://www.NextEraEnergyResources.com.  

    The MIL Network –