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Category: United States of America

  • MIL-OSI: AvePoint Confidence Platform Adds New ROI and Resilience Command Centers Plus Agentic AI Security to Drive Operational Excellence

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    JERSEY CITY, N.J., June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — AvePoint (Nasdaq: AVPT), the global leader in data security, governance and resilience, today announced significant updates to the AvePoint Confidence Platform, including the launch of two new Command Centers – the Optimization and ROI Command Center and the Resilience Command Center – along with expanded agentic AI governance capabilities for Microsoft Copilot agents. These new capabilities enable organizations to maximize efficiency and reduce costs while maintaining robust security standards.

    “These updates represent our holistic approach to the challenges defining the modern data landscape,” said John Hodges, Chief Product Officer, AvePoint. “Whether organizations are looking to optimize costs, scale AI safely, or govern data across multiple clouds, the AvePoint Confidence Platform provides the unified intelligence and control they need to transform operational pressure into strategic advantage.”

    Optimization and ROI Command Center: Unveiling Measurable Cost Savings

    92 percent of companies intend to implement cost savings measures and strategically allocate resources, such as decommissioning unnecessary infrastructure, reevaluating vendor contracts, and implementing automation. The Optimization and ROI Command Center provides organizations with a comprehensive view of hard-to-find cost-saving opportunities across their data estate in a single pane of glass. The Command Center examines critical areas including integrated license management for cost reduction opportunities, information lifecycle management to mitigate data storage costs, and strategic data migration to consolidate and optimize cloud storage.

    Resilience Command Center: Unified Data Governance

    As 89 percent of enterprises have adopted multi-cloud strategies to minimize vendor lock-in and improve overall resilience, AvePoint’s new Resilience Command Center addresses the critical challenge of tracking and managing data resilience across complex environments. The offering provides comprehensive monitoring and actionable insights for Microsoft 365 services, including storage consumption tracking, backup data oversight, visibility into the most critical data protection with Backup Express, and cost optimization recommendations to enhance data protection efficiency. This foundational capability serves as the launching pad for AvePoint’s broader multi-cloud governance vision, with planned expansions to Salesforce, Google Workspace, and additional platforms throughout 2025.

    Enhanced AI Governance for the Agentic AI Era

    According to Gartner, 33 percent of enterprise software applications will include agentic AI by 2028 – up from less than 1 percent in 2024 – enabling 15 percent of day-to-day work decisions to be made autonomously. Recognizing that each AI agent represents a new endpoint requiring governance, AvePoint expanded AI management capabilities to address the emerging agentic AI landscape.The updates include enhanced Copilot agent governance, enabling scalable security applications across distributed AI deployments, expanded prompt monitoring capabilities, and comprehensive insights and recommendations for Copilot reporting and management.

    The AvePoint Confidence Platform creates an integrated ecosystem where risk and resilience management, cost optimization, and AI governance work together to provide organizations with unprecedented visibility and control over their data operations. This comprehensive approach enables organizations to position themselves for sustained growth and innovation.

    To learn more about the newest capabilities in the AvePoint Confidence Platform, join the AvePoint Innovates webinar taking place at 11am ET on Tuesday, July 8.

    About AvePoint:

    Beyond Secure. AvePoint is the global leader in data security, governance, and resilience, going beyond traditional solutions to ensure a robust data foundation and enable organizations everywhere to collaborate with confidence. Over 25,000 customers worldwide rely on the AvePoint Confidence Platform to prepare, secure, and optimize their critical data across Microsoft, Google, Salesforce, and other collaboration environments. AvePoint’s global channel partner program includes approximately 5,000 managed service providers, value-added resellers, and systems integrators, with our solutions available in more than 100 cloud marketplaces. To learn more, visit www.avepoint.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

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

    Disclosure Information

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

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

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

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Q1 update for the three months ended 30 April 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ICG Enterprise Trust plc

    24 June 2025

    Q1 update for the three months ended 30 April 2025

         
         
         
     

    Highlights

    • NAV per Share of 2,011p; LTM NAV per Share Total Return of 6.3% (5 year annualised: 14.8%)
    • Q1 Portfolio Return on a Local Currency Basis of 0.6%, offset by FX, resulting in Portfolio Return on a Sterling Basis of (2.4)% and NAV per Share Total Return of (2.6)%
    • Total Proceeds of £149m, including £62m net proceeds from the sale of a portion of our Portfolio at a 5.5% discount and £48m from sale of Minimax (previously our largest portfolio company holding)1; Total New Investments of £48m
    • £9m of buybacks during the quarter, adding 0.4% (8.4p) to NAV per Share Total Return
    • Robust balance sheet: low gearing ratio (3%); €300m revolving credit facility extended to May 2029
    • Q1 dividend of 9p per share; Board intends to pay total dividends of at least 38p per share for FY26 (FY25: 36p)
    • Secondaries are offering some compelling investment opportunities

    1 As announced in April 2025, and includes £3m of further Minimax proceeds received in late April 2025

    		  
      PERFORMANCE OVERVIEW      
            Annualised
      Performance to 30 April 2025 3 months 1 year 3 years 5 years 10 years
      Portfolio Return on a Local Currency Basis 0.6% 10.3% 8.4% 17.8% 15.1%
      NAV per Share Total Return (2.6)% 6.3% 6.3% 14.8% 13.4%
      Share Price Total Return (12.5)% (0.9)% 4.4% 12.6% 10.3%
      FTSE All-Share Index Total Return (1.2)% 7.5% 7.0% 10.9% 5.8%
      Portfolio activity overview for Q1 FY26 Primary Direct Secondary Total ICG-managed
      Portfolio Return on a Local Currency Basis 0.3% 1.5% (0.2)% 0.6% 1.4%
      Portfolio Return in Sterling (2.1)% (2.0)% (4.3)% (2.4)% (1.6)%
      New Investments £25m £14m £8m £48m £28m
      Proceeds £98m £36m £15m £149m £66m
      New fund Commitments £76m £—m £—m £76m £21m
      Closing Portfolio value £699m £475m £211m £1,386m £389m
      % Total Portfolio 50% 34% 15% 100% 28%

    ENQUIRIES

    Institutional investors and analysts:         Martin Li, Shareholder Relations                        +44 (0) 20 3545 1816
    Nathan Brown, Deutsche Numis                        +44 (0) 20 7260 1426
    David Harris, Cadarn Capital                        +44 (0) 20 7019 9042
    Media:                                        Clare Glynn, Corporate Communications, ICG        +44 (0) 20 3545 1850

    COMPANY TIMETABLE

    A presentation for investors and analysts will be held at 10:30 BST tomorrow (Wednesday 25 June 2025). A link for the presentation can be found on the Results & Reports page of the Company website. A recording of the presentation will be made available on the Company website after the event.

      FY26 First Interim Dividend
    Ex-dividend date 14 August 2025
    Record date 15 August 2025
    Dividend payment date 29 August 2025

    ABOUT ICG ENTERPRISE TRUST

    ICG Enterprise Trust is a leading listed private equity investor focused on creating long-term growth by delivering consistently strong returns through selectively investing in profitable, cash-generative private companies, primarily in Europe and the US.

    We invest in companies directly as well as through funds managed by Intermediate Capital Group plc (“ICG”) and other leading managers who focus on creating long-term value and building sustainable growth through active management and strategic change.

    ICG Alternative Investment Limited, a regulated subsidiary of ICG, acts as the Manager of the Company.

    NOTES
    Included in this document are Alternative Performance Measures (“APMs”). APMs have been used if considered by the Board and the Manager to be the most relevant basis for shareholders in assessing the overall performance of the Company, and for comparing the performance of the Company to its peers and its previously reported results.

    All performance figures are stated on a Total Return basis (i.e. including the effect of re-invested dividends).

    DISCLAIMER
    The information contained herein and on the pages that follow does not constitute an offer to sell, or the solicitation of an offer to acquire or subscribe for, any securities in any jurisdiction where such an offer or solicitation is unlawful or would impose any unfulfilled registration, qualification, publication or approval requirements on ICG Enterprise Trust PLC (the “Company”) or its affiliates or agents. Equity securities in the Company have not been and will not be registered under the applicable securities laws of the United States, Australia, Canada, Japan or South Africa (each an “Excluded Jurisdiction”). The equity securities in the Company referred to herein and on the pages that follow may not be offered or sold within an Excluded Jurisdiction, or to any U.S. person (“U.S. Person”) as defined in Regulation S under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “U.S. Securities Act”), or to any national, resident or citizen of an Excluded Jurisdiction.

    The information on the pages that follow may contain forward looking statements. Any statement other than a statement of historical fact is a forward looking statement. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by any forward looking statement. The Company does not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward looking statements. You should not place undue reliance on any forward looking statement, which speaks only as of the date of its issuance.

    MANAGER’S REVIEW

    Our investment strategy

    Within developed markets, we focus on investing in buyouts of profitable, cash-generative businesses that exhibit resilient growth characteristics, which we believe will generate long-term compounding returns across economic cycles.

    We take an active approach to portfolio construction, with a flexible mandate that enables us to deploy capital in Primary, Direct and Secondary investments. Geographically we focus on the developed markets of North America and Europe, including the UK, which have deep and mature private equity markets supported by a robust corporate governance framework.

    Investments managed by ICG accounted for 28% of the Portfolio.

      Medium-term target Five-year average Q1 FY26
    1. Target Portfolio composition 1      
    Investment category      
    Primary ~50% 56% 51%
    Direct ~25% 29% 34%
    Secondary ~25% 15% 15%
    Geography      
    North America ~50% 43% 45%
    Europe (inc. UK) ~50% 50% 49%
    Other — 7% 7%
    1 As percentage of Portfolio  

    Performance overview

    • At 30 April 2025, the Portfolio was valued at £1,386m. The Portfolio Return on a Local Currency Basis for the quarter was 0.6%, and in Sterling terms was (2.4)%
    • ICG Enterprise Trust generated a NAV per Share Total Return of (2.6)% during the quarter, ending the period with a NAV per Share of 2,011p
    • Over the last five years ICG Enterprise Trust has generated an annualised NAV per Share Total Return of 14.8%
    Movement in the Portfolio
    £m    		 3 months to 30 April 2025
    Opening Portfolio1 £1,523m
    Total New Investments £48m
    Total Proceeds £(149)m
    Portfolio net cashflow £(101)m
    Valuation movement2 £9m
    Currency movement £(45)m
    Closing Portfolio £1,386m
    1 Refer to the Glossary
    2 86% of the Portfolio is valued using 31 March 2025 (or later) valuations.    		  
    NAV per Share Total Return 3 months to 30 April 2025
    % Portfolio growth (local currency) 0.6%
    % currency movement (3.0)%
    % Portfolio growth (Sterling) (2.4)%
    Impact of gearing 0.1%
    Finance costs and other expenses (0.4)%
    Management fee (0.3)%
    Co-investment Incentive Scheme Accrual movement 0.1%
    Impact of share buybacks 0.4%
    NAV per Share Total Return (2.6)%

    Quoted company exposure

    • We do not actively invest in publicly quoted companies but gain listed investment exposure when IPOs are used as a route to exit an investment. In these cases, exit timing typically lies with the manager with whom we have invested
    • At 30 April 2025, ICG Enterprise Trust’s exposure to quoted companies was valued at £62.9m, equivalent to 4.5% of the Portfolio value (31 January 2025: 4.8%). There was one quoted investment that individually accounted for 0.5% or more of the Portfolio value:
    Company Ticker 30 April 2025
    % of Portfolio value
    Chewy CHWY-US 1.8%
    Other companies   2.7%
    Total   4.5%

    Realisation activity

    • Total Proceeds of £149m during the quarter, including £62m net proceeds from a sale of a portion of our Portfolio (see RNS here). The sale was executed at a discount of 5.5% to 30 September 2024 valuation and realised a 1.6x return on invested cost (15% IRR)
    • £48m (€57m) cash proceeds from realisation of Minimax, our largest portfolio company. ICG Enterprise Trust is reinvesting €10m alongside Management and other investors including certain ICG funds
    • 45 Full Exits completed LTM, at a weighted average Uplift to Carrying Value of 15% and a 3.0x Multiple to Cost

    New investment activity

    • Total New Investments of £48m during the quarter, of which 58% (£28m) was alongside funds managed by ICG
    • The split of Total New Investments was split by category as follows:
    Investment Category

    Cost (£m)

    		 % of New Investments
    Primary £25m 52%
    Direct £15m 30%
    Secondary £8m 18%
    Total £48m 100%

    Commitments

    • We made five new fund Commitments totalling £76.0m during the quarter:
    Fund Manager Commitment during the period
        Local currency £m
    Integrum II Integrum $15.0m £11.6m
    GHO Capital IV GHO €15.0m £12.4m
    Hg Saturn IV Hg $20.0m £15.4m
    TH Lee X THL $20.0m £15.9m
    ICG Europe IX ICG €25.0m £20.7m
    • At 30 April 2025 we had total Undrawn Commitments of £375m to funds in their investment period and a further £163m to funds outside their investment period

    Balance sheet and liquidity

    • Total available liquidity at 30 April 2025 was £201.5m (31 January 2025: £124.6m)
      £m
    Cash at 31 January 2025 3.9
    Total Proceeds 148.7
    New investments (47.7)
    Debt drawn down (79.6)
    Shareholder returns (14.5)
    Management fees (4.2)
    Co-investment Incentive Scheme distribution (0.5)
    FX and other income/(expenses) 1.4
    Cash at 30 April 2025 7.5
    Available undrawn debt facilities 193.9
    Total available liquidity 201.5
    • The cash balance was £7.5m (31 January 2025: £3.9m) and drawn debt was £52.3m (31 January 2025: £131.9m). As a result, we had net debt of £44.8m (31 January 2025: £128.0m)
    • Maturity of our €300m revolving credit facility extended to 29 May 2029. All other key terms remain the same as per December 2024 RNS (available here)
    • At 30 April 2025, the Portfolio represented 104.2% of net assets (31 January 2025: 114.3%)
      £m % of net assets
    Portfolio 1,385.9 104.2%
    Cash 7.5 0.6%
    Drawn debt (52.3) (3.9)%
    Co-investment Incentive Scheme Accrual (52.1) 0.2%
    Other net current liabilities (10.9) (1.0)%
    Net assets 1,278.0 100.0%

    Dividend and share buyback

    • Progressive dividend policy maintained: first quarter dividend of 9p per share (Q1 FY25: 8.5p)
    • It is the Board’s current intention to declare total dividends of at least 38p per share for FY26 (FY25: 36p)
    • The following purchases have been made under the Company’s share buyback programme:
      Long-term Opportunistic Total
      Q1 FY263 Since inception1 Q1 FY263 Since inception2 Q1 FY263 Since
    inception
    Number of shares purchased 245,000 2,997,688 473,000 1,965,175 718,000 4,962,863
    % of opening shares since buyback started           7.2%
    Capital returned to shareholders £3.1m £35.7m £5.8m £24.1m £8.9m £59.8m
    Number of days shares have been acquired 21 204 7 18 28 222
    Weighted average discount to last reported NAV 36.3% 38.3% 38.7% 36.8% 37.9% 37.6%
    NAV per Share accretion (p)         8.4 57.8
    NAV per Share accretion (% of NAV)         0.4% 3.0%

    1.Since October 2022 (which was when the long-term share buyback programme was launched) up to and including 30 April 2025.
    2. Since May 2024 (which was when the opportunistic buyback programme was launched) up to and including 30 April 2025.
    3. Based on company-issued announcements / date of purchase, rather than date of settlement.
    Note: aggregate consideration excludes commission, PTM and SDRT.

    Activity since the period end

    Notable activity between 1 May 2025 and 31 May 2025 includes Realisation Proceeds of £1.5m and Total New Investments of £10.9m.

    ICG Private Equity Fund Investments Team
    24 June 2025

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Wrap Technologies Announces Appointment of Gerald “Jerry” Ratigan as Chief Financial Officer

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MIAMI, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Wrap Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: WRAP) (“Wrap” or, the “Company”), a global pioneer in innovative public safety technologies and services, today announced the appointment of Gerald “Jerry” Ratigan, seasoned finance executive, as the Company’s new Chief Financial Officer.

    Mr. Ratigan brings over 20 years of experience leading financial strategy across public companies, capital markets, investment banking and performance-focused advisory roles. Mr. Ratigan’s background includes extensive work in both international and domestic publicly traded environments, where Mr. Ratigan has consistently driven financial modernization and organizational agility.

    Mr. Ratigan has demonstrated exceptional ability in scaling finance operations, transforming reporting ecosystems and guiding companies through pivotal milestones—including M&A transactions and enterprise-wide digital transformations.

    Mr. Ratigan’s diverse career spans Big Four public accounting, Fortune 500 audit leadership, and C-suite roles in high-growth sectors such as gaming, fintech, travel and entertainment. Most recently, Mr. Ratigan served as the Senior Vice President of Accounting and Controls—and later as Acting Chief Financial Officer—at The Gearbox Entertainment Company. In this role, Mr. Ratigan led financial operations through a critical phase that culminated in a successful acquisition by Take-Two Interactive.

    Mr. Ratigan’s leadership encompassed building the finance function from the ground up, post-merger integration, ERP implementation, ESG reporting and consolidating multi-entity operations across geographies and currencies.

    Prior to Gearbox, Mr. Ratigan served as Senior Director of Accounting and Financial Reporting at Entertainment Benefits Group (a Creative Artists Agency company), where Mr. Ratigan managed global accounting and audit operations. Mr. Ratigan also held Chief Accounting Officer and Chief Audit Executive roles at MoneyOnMobile, Inc. (MOMT), where Mr. Ratigan led public filings, investor communications and SEC compliance—supporting uplisting efforts and complex carve-outs related to divestitures.

    Earlier in Mr. Ratigan’s career, Mr. Ratigan served as Director of SEC Financial Reporting at Prestige Cruise Holdings (acquired by Norwegian Cruise Line), overseeing public filings, XBRL tagging and IPO readiness. At Cooper Industries (later acquired by Eaton), Mr. Ratigan led internal audit efforts, implementing global audit strategies and streamlining post-acquisition integration.

    Mr. Ratigan began his career at KPMG and Grant Thornton, quickly distinguishing with international assignments and national training roles. Mr. Ratigan’s global experience spans work in the U.S., Mexico, China, the U.K., India, Germany, Australia, Bahrain, Thailand and Sweden.

    An advocate for ethics, compliance, and professional development, Mr. Ratigan currently serves on the Global Board of Directors for the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA), contributes to COSO’s new corporate governance framework, and sits on the Global Advisory Board of The CFO Alliance, offering insight on capital markets and economic trends.

    Mr. Ratigan holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting and Finance from the University of Miami and an MBA in Data Analytics from Louisiana State University–Shreveport. Mr. Ratigan is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in Texas, a Certified Management Accountant (CMA), and holds credentials in Strategy and Competitive Analysis (CSCA) and Production and Inventory Management (CPIM).

    “Across every role, Jerry has brought a distinctive blend of technical excellence, operational leadership and strategic vision. His work has consistently aligned financial operations with long-term value creation, enabled agility in complex environments, and driven measurable outcomes that build stockholder confidence and enterprise growth. We believe Jerry’s operational experience in capital markets and public accounting make him the right choice to align Wrap’s financial operations with its long-term strategy,” said Scot Cohen, Chief Executive Officer of Wrap.

    “This appointment emphasizes Wrap’s readiness for accelerating adoption and growing market interest. We believe Jerry’s leadership will help drive product scale, ensure accountability, and position Wrap to maximize the commercial opportunities of its expanding portfolio,” said Jared Novick, President and Chief Operating Officer of Wrap.

    “I am both honored and inspired to join Wrap at this defining moment,” said Mr. Ratigan. “The Company is delivering powerful solutions at the intersection of technology, public safety and compassion. I look forward to contributing to our mission while advancing a disciplined financial strategy that strengthens our foundation and creates sustainable stockholder value.”

    Louis Springer Elevated to Vice President of Finance to Support Financial Operational Scale

    Louis Springer’s promotion from Corporate Development to Vice President of Finance reflects both Wrap’s deep bench of internal talent and its disciplined focus on scaling operations with continuity and precision. Over the past 18 months, Mr. Springer played a central role in enacting the operational elements of Wrap’s cost-cutting initiatives and supporting broader organizational change. We believe his background in financial services, investment banking, and public company capital markets further strengthens Wrap’s ability to align day-to-day financial operations with long-term stockholder value creation.

    “Louis Springer has proven himself over the years with Wrap,” said Chief Executive Officer of Wrap, Mr. Cohen. “He’s earned his spot as Vice President of Finance and will continue to anchor our fiscal strategy under Mr. Ratigan’s leadership—bringing both stability and forward momentum that we believe benefits all stakeholders.”

    About Wrap Technologies, Inc.

    Wrap Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq: WRAP) a global leader in innovative public safety technologies and non-lethal tools, delivering cutting-edge technology with exceptional people to address the complex, modern day challenges facing public safety organizations.

    Wrap’s BolaWrap® 150 solution leads the world in pre-escalation and beyond, providing law enforcement with a safer choice for nearly every phase of a critical incident.

    This innovative, patented device deploys a multi-sensory, cognitive disruption that leverages sight, sound and sensation to expand the pre-escalation period and give officers the advantage and critical time to manage non-compliant subjects before resorting to higher-force options. The BolaWrap® 150 is a not pain-based- compliance. It does not shoot, strike, shock, or incapacitate—instead, it helps officers strategically operate pre-escalation on the force continuum, reducing the risk of injury to both officers and subjects. Used by over 1,000 agencies across the U.S. and in 60 countries, BolaWrap® is backed by training certified by the International Association of Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training (IADLEST), reinforcing Wrap’s commitment to public safety through cutting-edge technology and expert training.

    Wrap Reality® VR is a fully immersive training simulator to enhance decision-making under pressure.

    As a comprehensive public safety training platform, it provides first responders with realistic, interactive scenarios that reflect the evolving challenges of modern law enforcement. By offering a growing library of real-world situations, Wrap Reality® equips officers with the skills and confidence to navigate high stakes encounters effectively, leading to safer outcomes for both responders and the communities they serve.

    WrapVision is an all-new body-worn camera and evidence management system built for efficiency.

    Designed for efficiency, security, and transparency to meet the rigorous demands of modern law enforcement, WrapVision captures, stores and helps manage digital evidence, with operational security, regulatory compliance and superior video picture quality and field of view.

    The WrapVision camera, powered by IONODES boasts cloud integration and adheres to Trade Agreements Act (TAA) compliance requirements and GSA schedule contracts requirements. Crucially, unlike many competitor devices manufactured overseas in foreign, non-compliant, and possibly hostile regions, WrapVision is built in North America, promoting unparalleled data integrity and reducing critical concerns over unauthorized access or foreign surveillance risks.

    Trademark Information

    Trademark Information Wrap, the Wrap logo, BolaWrap®, Wrap Reality® and Wrap Training Academy are trademarks of Wrap Technologies, Inc., some of which are registered in the U.S. and abroad. All other trade names used herein are either trademarks or registered trademarks of the respective holders.

    Cautionary Note on Forward-Looking Statements – Safe Harbor Statement

    This release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as “expect,” “anticipate,” “should”, “believe”, “target”, “project”, “goals”, “estimate”, “potential”, “predict”, “may”, “will”, “could”, “intend”, and variations of these terms or the negative of these terms and similar expressions are intended to identify these forward-looking statements. Moreover, forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which involve factors or circumstances that are beyond the Company’s control. The Company’s actual results could differ materially from those stated or implied in forward-looking statements due to a number of factors, including but not limited to: the Company’s expectations related to the appointment of the new Chief Financial Officer, the expected benefits of the acquisition of W1 Global, LLC, the Company’s ability to maintain compliance with the Nasdaq Capital Market’s listing standards; the Company’s ability to successfully implement training programs for the use of its products; the Company’s ability to manufacture and produce products for its customers; the Company’s ability to develop sales for its products; the market acceptance of existing and future products; the availability of funding to continue to finance operations; the complexity, expense and time associated with sales to law enforcement and government entities; the lengthy evaluation and sales cycle for the Company’s product solutions; product defects; litigation risks from alleged product-related injuries; risks of government regulations; the business impact of health crises or outbreaks of disease, such as epidemics or pandemics; the impact resulting from geopolitical conflicts and any resulting sanctions; the ability to obtain export licenses for counties outside of the United States; the ability to obtain patents and defend intellectual property against competitors; the impact of competitive products and solutions; and the Company’s ability to maintain and enhance its brand, as well as other risk factors mentioned in the Company’s most recent annual report on Form 10-K, subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, and other Securities and Exchange Commission filings. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this release and were based on current expectations, estimates, forecasts, and projections as well as the beliefs and assumptions of management. Except as required by law, the Company undertakes no duty or obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this release as a result of new information, future events or changes in its expectations.

    Investor Relations Contact:
    (800) 583-2652
     ir@wrap.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How aid cuts may be affecting humanitarian workers

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Lucia Berdondini, Associate Professor in Psychology, University of East London

    Humanitarian work takes a profound emotional toll on workers. It places them at the frontline of global crises, at times witnessing the devastating impacts of war, famine, natural disasters, mass displacement and systemic injustice. Humanitarian workers have to cope with emotional exhaustion and burnout, with stress levels in some humanitarian settings comparable to those in combat zones.

    The emotional burden deepens when workers feel unable to live up to the very values that initially drew them to the sector. It can be emotionally painful for people to watch aid fail, or to carry out policies they believe are wrong.

    Psychologists refer to this distress as moral injury — a form of psychological, emotional and spiritual distress that arises when people perpetrate, witness or fail to prevent actions that violate their deeply held moral beliefs. Moral injury arises from guilt, shame, betrayal and anger. This is often directed at others and sometimes at oneself for participating in a harmful system.

    As governments cut foreign aid, this disillusionment is likely to worsen. In our 2023 study published in Displaced Voices, we interviewed aid workers across international organisations and charities working in Calais and Dunkirk.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    Participants shared their experiences of working in environments where they feel they are no longer making a positive impact — or where they must conform to work within systems they perceive as failing those who need assistance. Recent aid cuts are likely to exacerbate these sentiments.

    In the UK, Keir Starmer announced aid would fall from 0.5% to 0.3% of gross national income by 2027 — the lowest level since 1999 — to fund increased defence spending.

    In the US, the Trump administration suspended over 90% of USAid contracts worth around US$60 billion (£44 billion) — halting support for HIV treatment, reproductive health and crisis response. These cuts represent significant structural blows to humanitarian infrastructure. From mass layoffs in Kenya to the sudden closure of programmes worldwide, the consequences have been immediate and demoralising.

    Funding cuts don’t just disrupt operations, they erode the mental and moral resilience of humanitarian workers. Without support for their wellbeing, the sector’s ethical and effective functioning is at risk. Yet research on humanitarian mental health, especially moral injury, remains limited.

    Aid worker distress

    Based on our experience researching the sector, we expect that recent aid cuts in the UK and US will deepen moral injuries among humanitarian workers.

    In an ongoing pilot study, we are examining how aid cuts impact the psychological wellbeing of humanitarian workers. We have analysed 15 publicly available sources (ten blogs and five podcasts) created by aid professionals between 2023 and 2025. While the findings are not yet published, our observation reveals clear patterns of distress linked to moral injury.

    We have also observed some evidence of moral injury stemming from the aid cuts. Some workers expressed moral fatigue – slow exhaustion caused by ethical strain, and a sense of futility and loss of meaning. One practitioner wrote in a blog: “I used to believe we were helping — now I feel like I’m sweeping water uphill.”

    Several blog posts and podcast episodes suggested a sense of complicity; the pain of being part of organisational silence or failure. Workers spoke of “being the face of a broken system” or “used to justify programmes we knew were failing.” As one put it: “Being a human is messy; serving humanity is messier.”

    Still others described the ethical vacuum left by aid cuts, where workers are expected to care without mandate or resources.

    Protesters in the US gather in opposition to the USAid cuts.
    Philip Yabut/Shutterstock

    Our findings so far reveal a troubling overlap between ethical strain and systemic failure in the humanitarian sector. As aid budgets shrink and resources dwindle, workers are overwhelmed, emotionally disoriented and psychologically vulnerable — often forced to choose between compromise and burnout.

    Some may leave the sector; others will stay, but with hardened hearts. We’ve seen this first-hand through our work on the UEL Mental Wellbeing Portal, where professionals share stories of programme closures, job loss, grief and a deep sense of powerlessness — echoing our pilot-study findings.

    A sustainable (and compassionate) aid system must urgently recognise and address the psychological toll of working in a system that workers feel no longer aligns with their humanitarian values. This crisis of moral injury is not inevitable. The sector needs investment not just in operations, but in the people who carry them out. That starts with understanding and acknowledging the emotional cost of aid cuts.

    Lucia Berdondini: I received funding from DifD in 2010, the British Council in 2011 and the Academy of Medical Sciences in 2020. I am an Associate Professor at the University of East London, where I lead the MSc in Humanitarian Intervention (Distance Learning) and the UEL Mental Wellbeing Portal for Humanitarian Workers. I also collaborate with NGOs and academic institutions in the humanitarian field. These affiliations are relevant to the subject of this article.

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

    – ref. How aid cuts may be affecting humanitarian workers – https://theconversation.com/how-aid-cuts-may-be-affecting-humanitarian-workers-257482

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Take Extreme Caution as Heat and Severe Weather Persist

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today urged New Yorkers to take safety precautions during periods of extreme heat throughout Primary Day. New Yorkers can expect dangerously hot and humid conditions to continue today with feels-like temperatures between 90-106 degrees statewide. In addition, there is the potential for severe thunderstorms throughout most of the state this afternoon and evening that could contain damaging winds. Feels-like temperatures on Wednesday are expected to be 82-100 degrees with the potential for severe thunderstorms with damaging winds in the southern part of the state possible in the afternoon and evening. In response to the severe weather that impacted Central New York over the weekend, Governor Hochul declared a State of Emergency in 32 counties and state agencies are responding to assist New Yorkers with storm damage and impacts from extreme heat.

    “With dangerously hot weather expected throughout most of the state today, I am urging all New Yorkers to stay cool and safe — especially those waiting in line to cast ballots,” Governor Hochul said. “State emergency response personnel are standing by and prepared to help New Yorkers through this extreme weather, and as this heat wave peaks, I am reminding everyone to have a safe place to stay cool, limit time outdoors, and drink plenty of water.”

    This weekend, Governor Hochul signed legislation repealing an outdated section of New York’s election law — the new legislation now supports voters by allowing refreshments to be provided as they wait in line to exercise their civic duty.

    Governor Hochul today directed the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation to offer extended hours at State swimming and cooling facilities and other State parks during the current heat wave as a way to help New Yorkers beat the heat.

    New Yorkers can also stay cool by utilizing nearby cooling centers. Find a cooling center near you on the State Department of Health website. Residents of New York City can find cooling center information here. Certain State Park swimming facilities will also extend their hours on Tuesday and Wednesday.

    For Those Impacted by Storms on Sunday
    In response to severe weather that impacted the State over the weekend, Governor Hochul declared a State of Emergency in 32 counties. At the Governor’s direction, the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services has activated the State Emergency Operations Center to Enhanced Monitoring Mode to track the storms and damage. They are working closely with local emergency managers and governments to support requests and provide assistance as requested. State agencies stand ready to respond with equipment and personnel. Light towers have been provided to Oneida County and other materials stored in the State’s nine stockpiles including generators and pumps are also available to support local needs.

    Homeowners and businesses in impacted areas are encouraged to fill out an online form allowing residents to self-report damages to their homes and/or businesses. The purpose of this form is solely to collect information that may help state and local officials identify supplemental damages to develop and augment potential requests for available federal assistance programs. This is not an application for relief programs.

    The Department of Financial Services also has a number of resources for homeowners dealing with their insurance companies following a disaster:

    • File Claims Promptly
    • Making Necessary Repairs
    • Keep Records of Dealings with Insurance Representatives
    • Inventory Your Belongings
    • Flood Damage
    • Keep Your Receipts If You Relocate During Repairs
    • Filing Complaints
    • Information on Homeowners’ Insurance

    More resources are available at the DFS Disaster and Flood Recovery Resource Center.

    State Agency Response

    Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services
    The Office of Emergency Management is in regular contact with county emergency managers to ensure cooling centers are available, and to offer support and advise on extreme heat risks. In addition, the agency is facilitating preparations and coordinating guidance and communications with State agency partners. Information on how to manage extreme heat can be found online. To receive real time weather and emergency alerts, New Yorkers are encouraged to text the name of their county or borough to 333111.

    New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation
    The following State Park swimming facilities will be open for extended hours:

    Long Island

    • Jones Beach State Park: Field 6 & Central Mall; extended swimming until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Robert Moses State Park: Field 2 & 5; extended swimming until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Sunken Meadow State Park: Main Beach; extended swimming until 7:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Hither Hills State Park: extended swimming until 7:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday

    Hudson Valley

    • Bear Mountain State Park: extended swimming until 6:30 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Lake Tiorati State Park: extended swimming until 6:45 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Rockland Lake State Park: extended swimming until 6:30 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Lake Minnewaska: extended swimming until 7:45 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Lake Minnewaska-Awosting: extended swimming until 6:30 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday

    New York City

    • Gantry Plaza State Park: spray pad hours extended to 7:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Four Freedoms State Park: spray pad hours extended to 6:45 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Denny Farrell Riverbank State Park: extended swimming until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday

    Capital District

    • Grafton Lakes State Park: extended swimming until 7:00 p.m. Tuesday
    • Thompson’s Lake Campground/Thacher State Park: extended swimming until 7:00 p.m. Tuesday
    • Moreau Lake State Park: extended swimming until 7:00 p.m. Tuesday
    • Saratoga Spa State Park: extended swimming until 7:00 p.m. Tuesday
    • Lake Taghkanic State Park: extended swimming until 7:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Taconic-Copake State Park: extended swimming until 7:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Taconic Kiddie Pool: extended swimming until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday

    Western New York

    • Allegany State Park – Red House Lake: extended swimming until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Allegany State Park – Quaker Lake: extended swimming until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Beaver Island State Park: extended swimming until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Evangola State Park: extended swimming until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Fort Niagara State Park: extended swimming until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Woodlawn Beach State Park: extended swimming until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday

    Central New York

    • Green Lakes State Park: extended swimming until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Delta Lake State Park: extended swimming until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Verona Beach State Park: extended swimming until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Chenango Valley State Park: extended swimming until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday

    Finger Lakes

    • Letchworth State Park: extended swimming until 7:45 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Fair Haven Beach State Park: extended swimming until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Robert Treman State Park: extended swimming until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Seneca Lake-Spray Ground: spray ground hours extended until 7:30 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Taughannock Falls State Park: extended swimming until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Sampson State Park: extended swimming until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Filmore Glen State Park: extended swimming until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday

    North Country

    • Southwick Beach State Park: extended swimming until 7:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Westcott Beach State Park: extended swimming until 7:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday

    Swimming availability may be affected by hazardous weather, changing water conditions or staffing. Please check State Parks’ website parks.ny.gov or call the park you wish to visit directly to confirm availability.

    Department of Financial Services
    After contacting insurance companies, residents can get assistance with insurance information regarding policy coverage for losses and suggestions on how to document their losses and safeguard their property by calling the Department’s Disaster Hotline at 800-339-1759.

    New Yorkers who have been impacted by flooding are encouraged to visit the DFS Disaster and Flood Recovery Resource Center for helpful information.

    New York State Department of Public Service
    DPS is tracking electric system conditions and overseeing utility response to any situations that may arise as a result of this week’s extreme heat and potential thunderstorm activity. There are currently 9,997 electric outages reported statewide. DPS remains in direct contact with utility operations Leadership to ensure they are continuously tracking system conditions and responding to cases of trouble and outages as quickly as possible to restore the system and customers. New York’s utilities have approximately 5,500 workers available, as necessary, to engage in damage assessment, response, repair and restoration efforts across New York State for this heat event. Agency staff will track utilities’ work throughout the event and ensure utilities shift appropriate staffing to regions that experience the greatest impact.

    During heat waves, increased usage of electric devices such as air conditioners place a considerable demand on the state’s electricity system and instances of low voltage or isolated power outages can result. The record for such usage was set on July 19, 2013, when it reached 33,956 MWs (one megawatt of electricity is enough to power up to 1,000 average-sized homes).

    National Grid will continue with repair and restoration efforts today for the remaining electric customers impacted by Sunday morning’s severe thunderstorms. Some portions of National Grid’s territory experienced straight-line winds exceeding 90 mph and an EF-1 tornado with winds up to 105 mph, with more than 101,000 electric customers affected statewide.

    Department of Health
    The State Health Department is taking a number of steps to promote the safety of all New Yorkers in periods of extreme heat, especially those most at risk. The Department has distributed guidance to all hospitals, diagnostic and treatment centers, adult care facilities, home care and hospice providers and nursing homes and has issued additional guidance to hosts of any scheduled public events with more than 5,000 people in attendance. The Department is working with DSHES and local health departments and emergency managers to ensure access to cooling centers and safe spaces during this extreme heat.

    Learn more about heat related illness, including signs and symptoms and when to take action on the State Health Department’s extreme heat advice webpage.

    The New York State Department of Health’s interactive Heat Risk and Illness Dashboard allows the public and county health care officials to determine the forecasted level of heat-related health risks in their area and raise awareness about the dangers of heat exposure.

    NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets
    The agency has compiled important information, including preventative measures, to help mitigate the effects of extreme heat on farm workers and farm animals. The Department will also be working closely with partners at The New York Extension Disaster Education Network (NY EDEN) at Cornell University to monitor any potential impacts of the extreme heat expected this week. NY EDEN is also a resource for farmers and farm workers during a heat wave, and additional information can be found at https://eden.cce.cornell.edu/natural-hazards/heat-wave/.

    Department of Environmental Conservation
    DEC reminds outdoor adventurers that unpredictable weather — including rapidly changing temperatures and storms in the Adirondacks, Catskills, and other backcountry areas — can create unexpectedly hazardous conditions. Visitors should be prepared with proper clothing and equipment for rain, mud and warmer temperatures to ensure a safe outdoor experience.

    Hikers in the Adirondacks are encouraged to check the Adirondack Backcountry Information webpages for updates on trail conditions, seasonal road closures and general recreation information.

    Hiking in the heat is always risky. New Yorkers and visitors should review the following tips to prevent heat exhaustion and heat stroke:

    • Slow your pace.
    • Drink water and rest often.
    • Seek shade and avoid long periods in direct sunlight.
    • Bring at least 2 liters of water for any hike.
    • Bring a water filter, especially for longer hikes.
    • Bring salty snacks to keep your electrolytes in check.
    • Wear sunscreen.
    • Leave your pets at home — the heat is harder on them, especially walking on hot rocks.
    • Consider staying home yourself and rescheduling for another day when weather conditions improve.

    Even if the weather is forecast to be high heat all day, there’s always a chance of hypothermia due to a sudden storm or drop in temperatures. This can increase dramatically if you’re sweating and not wearing sweat-wicking clothing (made of fabrics like wool or polyester). Many cases of hypothermia are in the summer when people least expect it.

    Whether you are hiking, mountain biking or paddling, Hike Smart NY can help you prepare with a list of 10 essentials, guidance on what to wear, and tips for planning your trip with safety and sustainability in mind. In an emergency, call 9-1-1. To request Forest Ranger assistance, call 1-833-NYS-RANGERS.

    Air Quality
    DEC is continuing to monitor air quality across the State and will issue air quality health advisories as necessary. New Yorkers are encouraged be “Air Quality Aware” and check airnow.gov for accurate information on air quality forecasts and conditions. To view the latest DEC air quality forecasts, visit the DEC website.

    Extreme Heat
    DEC recently released preliminary Urban Heat Island maps to help communities better understand, plan for, and adapt to extreme heat exposures on the neighborhood level. Links to the maps, as well as additional information and data, can be found on DEC’s Extreme Heat Action Plan webpage  and posted at nys-heat.daveyinstitute.com/hottest-hour. The project advances a key action in the Extreme Heat Action Plan and advances a 2022 law signed by Governor Hochul directing DEC to study the impacts of disproportionate concentrations of extreme heat in disadvantaged communities across the State.

    Harmful Algal Blooms
    Following periods of heavy rainfall, nutrient runoff can cause harmful algal blooms (HABs) to form in freshwater lakes, ponds, rivers and streams. New Yorkers should avoid swimming, boating, recreating in, or drinking water with a bloom.

    When it comes to HABs, DEC encourages New Yorkers to “KNOW IT, AVOID IT, REPORT IT”:

    • KNOW IT – HABs vary in appearance from scattered green dots in the water to long, linear green streaks, pea soup or spilled green paint, to blue-green or white coloration.  
    • AVOID IT – People, pets, and livestock should avoid contact with water that is discolored or has algal scums on the surface.  
    • REPORT IT – If members of the public suspect a HAB, report it through the NYHABs online reporting form available on DEC’s website. Symptoms or health concerns related to HABs should be reported to New York State Department of Health at [email protected]. 

    The New York State Department of Labor has released comprehensive guidance to help employers better protect outdoor workers during extreme heat and advises workers and employers to engage in extreme heat best practices such as:

    • Ensure access to clean drinking water at no cost to workers, available at all times and as close to the worksite as possible.
    • Provide shade and paid rest when the heat index reaches 80 degrees Fahrenheit or above, and more frequent rest breaks once the heat index exceeds 90 degrees.
    • Wear proper PPE so long as they do not interfere with safety equipment, including sunscreen, cooling vests, wide-brim hats, and lightweight, loose-fitting clothing.

    More information on best practices for working in extreme heat can be found here.

    Thruway Authority maintenance crews will be conducting standard daily operations during times where temperatures are lowest and will enhance patrols monitoring the highway. Motorists are reminded and encouraged to take breaks at one of 26 service areas or three Welcome Centers located on the Thruway system.

    Department of Transportation maintenance crews will conduct most outdoor work during morning hours and follow established hydration and rest protocols to help mitigate the risks associated with high temperatures.

    Office of Children and Family Services
    The agency is taking a number of actions to ensure activities at residential centers, detention programs and congregate care programs are conducted in a safe manner during the heat. This includes checking cooling equipment, ensuring proper amounts of water are available and consumed, rescheduling activities and meetings, and identifying staff and clients who may be affected by heat. They are also providing guidance to child care programs and groups associated with the Commission for the Blind statewide.

    New York State Office of Mental Health
    In advance of the hot conditions, New Yorkers should be aware of the impact high heat may have on individuals receiving antipsychotic medications, who are at particular risk of heat stroke and neuroleptic malignant syndrome during periods of extreme heat, which is more likely in poorly ventilated areas. Children and the elderly are at increased risk.

    In addition to monitoring individuals at risk, such conditions are best prevented by a heightened attention to hydration, particularly those at high risk, including individuals taking antipsychotic medications, the elderly, children and those with poor fluid intake.

    Also, individuals at high-risk should remain in cooler areas; be monitored for temperature elevations; avoid direct exposure to sunlight and wear protective clothing and sunscreen. Anticholinergic medications may interfere with sweating and should be minimized.

    Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance
    The agency is reminding local departments of social services and emergency homeless shelter operators of the need to provide fans to help maintain reasonable air circulation during times of extreme heat and humidity. Also, shelter providers should provide a cooling room in the facility for residents, if feasible.

    Metropolitan Transportation Authority
    To reduce potential impacts to service and reduce response times to heat-related events, NYC Transit will implement heat patrols to proactively increase track inspections and stage extra personnel in key risk areas including power substations, machine rooms, generators, cables, and connections. To ensure functioning air conditioning, subway railcars and buses will be inspected before being placed in service. Paratransit service providers are reminded vehicles must have functioning air-conditioning. Buses and operators will be on standby for any support needed with subways or emergency service. NYC Transit also completes a continuous welded rail watch when rail temperatures exceed 100 degrees to be vigilant of rail kinks or other issues.

    Long Island Rail Road and Metro-North Railroad crews will be staged at key locations to be able to respond quickly to weather-related issues. The railroads will monitor rail temperatures, deploy heat patrols to inspect the rails for any kinks, and stage additional Power Department personnel to protect power substations and overhead aerial lines. Train crews have been instructed to report any rail conditions that need attention.

    The Port Authority Office of Emergency Management coordinates with facility teams to monitor weather conditions and operational impacts and maintains communication with regional partners to support response readiness during periods of elevated temperatures.

    For a complete listing of weather watches, warnings, advisories and latest forecasts, visit the National Weather Service website.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Previously deported Mexican national sentenced to 262 months for methamphetamine distribution, second Mexican national sentenced to 168 months

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    TYLER, Texas – Two Mexican nationals were sentenced to lengthy federal prison sentences for drug trafficking violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.

    Leopoldo Alonso-Palacios, 38, and Juan Luis Salinas-Leon, 37, both Mexican nationals illegally living in Center, were sentenced to 168 months and 262 months, respectively, by U.S. District Judge Jeremy D. Kernodle on June 23, 2025.

    According to information presented in court, on March 4, 2025, Alonso-Palacios and Salinas-Leon were stopped while driving on Interstate-20 in Wills Point for speeding.  During the stop, they consented to a search of the vehicle, which resulted in the discovery of 937.7 grams of methamphetamine.  During his arrest, officers found Salinas-Leon in possession of a firearm. The two men then confessed to having additional methamphetamine at their homes in Center.  Federal agents searched the residences, where they discovered large plastic tubs containing chicken lard that tested positive for the presence of methamphetamine, along with paraphernalia such as metal pots and mesh screens, materials commonly used in a methamphetamine conversion lab. At such clandestine labs, methamphetamine concealed in other substances is extracted by applying chemical processes and reconstituted into distributable drugs. In total, agents recovered more than six kilograms of methamphetamine ready for distribution as well as 22 kilograms of liquids in various stages of the conversion process, which also tested positive for the presence of methamphetamine.

    Immigration records reveal that both men were unlawfully present in the United States and that Salinas-Leon has been previously prosecuted for illegally entering the country.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    This case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosive; Gregg County Sheriff’s Office; and Wills Point Police Department.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lucas Machicek.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Qatar Welcomes Ceasefire Agreement between Iran and Israel

    Source: Government of Qatar

    Doha, June 24, 2025

    The State of Qatar welcomes the ceasefire agreement between the Islamic Republic of Iran and Israel.

    The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expresses Qatar’s hope that the agreement serves as a meaningful step toward adopting dialogue and diplomacy to resolve conflicts in the region and beyond. Qatar underscores the importance of using peaceful means to achieve lasting stability and comprehensive, sustainable peace at the same time, the Ministry reaffirms that the Iranian violation of Qatar’s sovereignty and airspace forms part of a dangerous escalation in the region, which require sincere and collective efforts to deter all irresponsible actions.

    The Ministry reaffirms that the State of Qatar will continue to serve as a driving force for peace. Its commitment to peace is grounded in principle and is not influenced by specific events or shifting political considerations. Qatar remains dedicated to the values of good neighborliness and fully supports all sincere efforts aimed at resolving crises and building a more secure, cooperative, and prosperous world.

    The Ministry expresses the State of Qatar’s sincere appreciation for the efforts of His Excellency President Donald Trump, President of the United States of America, in facilitating this agreement. It also expresses hope that both parties will fully uphold and adhere to its terms.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI: DSS, Inc.’s Subsidiary, Impact BioMedical Inc., Announces Strategic Merger

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — DSS, Inc. (NYSE American: DSS) (“DSS” or the “Company”), a multinational company operating across diverse industries including packaging, wealth management, and biohealth innovation, today announced that its subsidiary, Impact BioMedical Inc. (“Impact”), has entered into a definitive merger agreement (the “Merger Agreement”) with Dr. Ashleys Limited (“Dr. Ashleys”), a global pharmaceutical company.

    Under the terms of the agreement, Dr. Ashleys will acquire Impact through a reverse merger that will result in a newly formed combined entity (the “PubCo”) traded on the NYSE American under the name “Dr Ashleys Limited.”

    This strategic transaction marks an important milestone not only for Impact, but also for DSS, as it reflects a successful outcome in the overall Company strategy to unlock value across the portfolio and for its shareholders by advancing key subsidiaries toward independent public listings and/or other exit opportunities.

    Strategic Rationale

    The combination of Dr. Ashleys’ extensive pharmaceutical manufacturing and commercialization capabilities with Impact BioMedical’s innovation-driven platform positions the combined company to accelerate the development of groundbreaking therapies.

    Under the terms of the Merger Agreement, a series of conversion and equity alignment actions are contemplated to simplify ownership and strengthen DSS’s strategic position in the newly formed public entity (“PubCo”) immediately prior to closing. This includes the conversion of Impact’s Series A Preferred Stock, the exercise of DSS’s debt-to-equity rights under its promissory note, and the cancellation of in-the-money Impact options and warrants for Impact shares. These shares, including those held by DSS, will be converted into PubCo ordinary shares, representing 4.80% of the combined company’s total outstanding shares at closing.

    For DSS, this transaction extends its equity interest to a larger, globally positioned pharmaceutical company. It offers an opportunity to participate in the growth potential of a public entity with a portfolio of intellectual property, R&D capabilities, and international market reach.

    “This transaction reflects our continued commitment to unlocking shareholder value through the strategic development and monetization of our subsidiaries,” said Jason Grady, CEO of DSS, Inc. “We believe the combination of Impact’s disruptive pipeline with Dr. Ashleys’ global infrastructure and commercial expertise will establish a robust, scalable biopharmaceutical platform. It further validates our strategy of creating long-term value by preparing our key assets for public market growth.”

    Advancing the DSS Strategic Roadmap

    This transaction represents the latest milestone in DSS’s broader strategy to structure and scale its diverse subsidiaries as standalone public entities, unlocking value through spin-offs, strategic transactions, and public listings.

    Transaction Overview

    Under the terms of the Merger Agreement, a merger subsidiary incorporated in Nevada as a PubCo subsidiary will merge with and into Impact, with Impact being the surviving entity. Simultaneously with or immediately following the merger, the PubCo shall acquire all of the issued and outstanding shares of Dr. Ashleys Bio Labs Limited, a Cayman Islands exempted company holding all shares of Dr. Ashleys. As a result of the Transaction, Impact and Dr. Ashleys shall become wholly-owned subsidiaries of PubCo. Upon closing, the PubCo will be operated by the management team of Dr. Ashleys, with a new Board of Directors to be assembled by Dr. Ashleys.

    The Boards of Directors of both Dr. Ashleys and Impact have unanimously approved the proposed Transaction, subject to, among other things, approval by Impact’s shareholders, and satisfaction (or waiver, as applicable) of the conditions provided in the Merger Agreement, including regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions, including an effective registration statement on Form F-4 or S-4 in connection with the proposed Transaction being declared effective by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) and the approval of listing applications with the New York Stock Exchange.

    Additional information about the proposed Transaction, including a copy of the Merger Agreement, has been provided in a Current Report on Form 8-K filed by Impact with the SEC and available at www.sec.gov. Additional information about the proposed Transaction will be described in the registration statement on Form F-4 or S-4, which will be filed by the newly formed PubCo with the SEC.

    About DSS, Inc.

    DSS, Inc. (NYSE American: DSS) is a multinational company operating across multiple business lines including health and wellness, packaging, real estate, and securities and blockchain. The Company operates a business model based on developing high-growth subsidiaries and unlocking value through strategic IPOs and public listings. For more information, visit www.dssworld.com.

    Forward-looking Statements:

    The foregoing material may contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, each as amended. Forward-looking statements include all statements that do not relate solely to historical or current facts, including without limitation statements regarding the Company’s product development and business prospects, and can be identified by the use of words such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “project,” “estimate,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “believe,” “potential,” “should,” “continue” or the negative versions of those words or other comparable words. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future actions or performance. These forward-looking statements are based on information currently available to the Company and its current plans or expectations and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could significantly affect current plans. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or the underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may differ significantly from those anticipated, believed, estimated, expected, intended, or planned. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, the Company cannot guarantee future results, performance, or achievements. Except as required by applicable law, including the security laws of the United States, the Company does not intend to update any of the forward-looking statements to conform these statements to actual results.

    For investor and media inquiries or additional information, please contact:

    Investor Contact:
    DSS, Inc.
    Investor Relations
    ir@dssworld.com
    +1 (585) 565-2422

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: PMGC Holdings Inc. Signs Non-Binding LOI to Acquire CNC Aerospace Manufacturer Generating $4.5 Million in Annual Revenue

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • Serves Multiple Tier-1 Aerospace Clients
    • AS9100 and ISO 9001-Certified CNC Manufacturer

    NEWPORT BEACH, Calif., June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — PMGC Holdings Inc. (Nasdaq: ELAB) (the “Company,” “PMGC,” “we,” or “us”), a diversified public holding company, today announced that it has entered into a non-binding Letter of Intent (“LOI”) to acquire a U.S.-based, CNC machining company specializing in manufacturing high-complexity components for the aerospace and defense sectors.

    About the Target Company

    The target company, founded in 1948 is AS9100 and ISO 9001certified CNC machining firm specializing in precision aerospace components. With over 75 years of experience, the company operates a modern facility equipped with 5-axis CNC machines, advanced CAD/CAM and ERP systems, and offers a full range of secondary services including grinding, EDM, and honing. It serves commercial and defense aerospace customers with ultra-tight tolerances and cleanroom-capable production, delivering high-quality parts backed by strong customer service and long-standing client relationships.

    With a 2024 revenue base of approximately $4.5 million and $500,000 in adjusted EBITDA, the business combines consistent profitability with a reputation for quality and reliability. Target’s growth has been entirely organic—built on decades of customer referrals, repeat business, and trusted vendor relationships.

    Strategic Fit

    This marks PMGC’s latest step in its strategy to acquire specialized U.S. manufacturers operating in sectors where quality, certification, and technical expertise create long-term value. The aerospace sector, in particular, is experiencing renewed demand for certified domestic suppliers as federal incentives and geopolitical realignment continue to push toward onshoring and supply chain resiliency.

    “This company exemplifies the kind of certified, mission-critical supplier we aim to partner with,” said Graydon Bensler, Chief Executive Officer of PMGC. “Its deep integration into high-trust aerospace supply chains, paired with consistent earnings and a strong operational foundation, make it a natural fit for our platform.”

    The closing of this anticipated acquisition is subject to customary conditions, including completion of due diligence, certain corporate approvals, and execution and delivery of definitive documentation. We cannot assure that closing of the acquisition will occur.

    About PMGC Holdings Inc.

    PMGC Holdings Inc. is a diversified holding company that manages and grows its portfolio through strategic acquisitions, investments, and development across various industries. Currently, our portfolio consists of three wholly owned subsidiaries: Northstrive Biosciences Inc., PMGC Research Inc., and PMGC Capital LLC. We are committed to exploring opportunities in multiple sectors to maximize growth and value. For more information, please visit https://www.pmgcholdings.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Statements contained in this press release regarding matters that are not historical facts are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended. Words such as “believes,” “expects,” “plans,” “potential,” “would” and “future” or similar expressions such as “look forward” are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this press release and are neither historical facts nor assurances of future performance. Instead, they are based only on our current beliefs, expectations and assumptions regarding the future of our business, future plans and strategies, projections, anticipated events and trends, the economy, activities of regulators and future regulations and other future conditions. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of our control. Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and the Company cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results. Therefore, you should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements. These and other risks are described more fully in PMGC Holdings’ filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), including the “Risk Factors” section of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, filed with the SEC on March 28, 2025, and its other documents subsequently filed with or furnished to the SEC. Investors and security holders are urged to read these documents free of charge on the SEC’s web site at www.sec.gov. All forward-looking statements contained in this press release speak only as of the date on which they were made. Except to the extent required by law, the Company undertakes no obligation to update such statements to reflect events that occur or circumstances that exist after the date on which they were made.

    IR Contact:

    IR@pmgcholdings.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: SIOS Technology Announces Strategic Partnership with FCS InfoTech to Deliver High Availability and Disaster Recovery Solutions Across India and the GCC Region

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN MATEO, Calif., June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SIOS Technology Corp., a leading provider of application high availability (HA) and disaster recovery (DR) solutions, today announced a strategic partnership with FCS InfoTech, a rapidly growing IT solutions and services company based in India. The alliance is designed to empower enterprises across India and the GCC region, including Oman, with robust, cost-effective high availability and disaster recovery capabilities for critical applications.

    “Our partnership with FCS InfoTech expands our footprint in a region where resiliency and uptime are essential to digital success,” said Masahiro Arai, Chief Operating Officer, SIOS Technology. “FCS brings deep regional knowledge and a strong track record in enterprise IT services, making them a trusted partner to deliver SIOS HA and DR solutions to businesses with mission-critical needs.”

    With an extensive customer base and proven expertise in implementing enterprise IT solutions, FCS InfoTech will serve as a key channel and implementation partner for SIOS LifeKeeper and SIOS DataKeeper. These technologies provide seamless HA and DR protection for SAP, Oracle, SQL Server, and other critical workloads across cloud, hybrid, and on-premises environments.

    “In today’s digital era, organizations are placing increased emphasis on IT resilience and uninterrupted service,” said Mr Vishal Upasham, CTO, FCS InfoTech.

    The SIOS HA/DR software enables enterprises to:

    • Protect critical applications with proven clustering and replication technologies
    • Avoid unnecessary investments in costly SAN hardware or expensive application editions
    • Achieve SLAs for uptime and disaster recovery with minimal operational complexity
    • Benefit from local support and implementation from FCS’s certified experts

    Together, SIOS Technology and FCS InfoTech are uniquely positioned to serve the growing demand for IT resiliency in a wide range of industries including finance, manufacturing, government, and energy across India and the Gulf Cooperation Council region.

    About SIOS Technology Corp.
    SIOS Technology Corp. high availability and disaster recovery solutions ensure availability and eliminate data loss for critical Windows and Linux applications operating across physical, virtual, cloud, and hybrid cloud environments. SIOS clustering software is essential for any IT infrastructure with applications requiring a high degree of resiliency, ensuring uptime without sacrificing performance or data, protecting businesses from local failures and regional outages, planned and unplanned. Founded in 1999, SIOS Technology Corp. (https://us.sios.com) is headquartered in San Mateo, California, with offices worldwide.

    SIOS, SIOS Technology, SIOS DataKeeper, SIOS LifeKeeper, and associated logos are registered trademarks or trademarks of SIOS Technology Corp. and/or its affiliates in the United States and/or other countries. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

    About FCS InfoTech

    FCS InfoTech is a leading IT infrastructure and services provider running for a decade with a strong presence in India and the GCC region by Mr. Amir Farooqui, CEO and Hammad Khan, CIO. Known for its strategic, innovative, and customer-driven approach, FCS InfoTech offers a broad portfolio of services across:

    • Digital Transformation
    • Cloud Computing & Migration
    • Cyber Resiliency & Security
    • Enterprise IT Managed Services

    FCS InfoTech partners with public sector organizations, SMEs, companies to drive operational excellence, modernize legacy systems, and align IT infrastructure with long-term business goals.

    Media Contact:

    Beth Winkowski
    Winkowski Public Relations, LLC for SIOS
    978-649-7189
    bethwinkowski@US.SIOS.com 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: African leaders urge United States (U.S.) to embrace investment-driven partnerships and review tariffs


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    African leaders have called on Monday for an urgent review of U.S. tariffs on African exports, urging a shift towards transformative partnerships and investment in Africa’s economic potential.

    Addressing more than 2,000 government and business leaders, and other delegates at the U.S.-Africa business summit in the capital Luanda, Angolan President João Lourenço said: “It is time to replace the logic of aid with the logic of investment and trade.”

    He urged U.S. companies to diversify beyond traditional oil and mineral extraction and invest in sectors such as automotive manufacturing, shipbuilding, tourism, cement production, and steel production.

    African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, added, “We’re not seeking aid, but building co-created solutions.” He called for the removal of punitive tariffs and visa restrictions, noting that Africa’s 1.3 billion people and abundant resources remain among the world’s most significant untapped economic opportunities.

    “This should not just be a summit, but a call to action. Together, let’s walk the pathways to prosperity—with unity, purpose, and Agenda 2063 as our guide,” he told the summit.

    In his remarks, African Development Bank Group President Dr. Akinwumi Adesina said, “We should review the high tariffs on African countries. What is needed is more trade between Africa and the U.S., not less.”

    African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretary General Wamkele Mene reinforced Africa’s integration agenda, highlighting the importance of open regional markets. “The undertaking of the AfCFTA is an ambitious one—It has to be ambitious,” Mene said. He emphasized that the success of AfCFTA is essential to scale investment, reduce fragmentation, and accelerate industrial development across the continent.

    From rhetoric to action: Building real partnerships

    The central message was clear: the era of aid dependency is over, and the time for transformative investment partnerships has arrived. The leaders called for bold, strategic investments to unlock Africa’s trillion-dollar potential.

    Responding to the call for deeper engagement, U.S. officials acknowledged Africa’s growing economic importance and the need to reset perceptions. Senior State Department Bureau Official Troy Fitrell said, “There are business leaders in the U.S. who need to understand the opportunities that lie in doing business with Africa. Our mission going forward will be to find them—and bring them in.”

    The U.S.-Africa Business Summit promotes economic cooperation and investment between the United States and Africa with a focus on fostering sustainable and inclusive economic growth. By bringing together leaders from government, business, and civil society, the summit provides a platform to discuss key issues and opportunities in the U.S.–Africa relations, ultimately driving growth and development on both sides.

    Adesina pointed to the Lobito corridor as a concrete example of strategic investment already underway.

    “That is why the African Development Bank is a key strategic partner with the U.S., Angola, and Zambia on the development of the Lobito corridor,” he said. This critical corridor will link the vast areas of Zambia and the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the port of Angola, improving mineral supplies, unlocking agricultural potential, and creating jobs.

    The African Development Fund, the soft loan arm of the Bank Group, will be providing $500 million in support of the development of the Lobito Corridor. Additionally, the African Development Bank will provide $1 billion over five years for complementary investments around the corridor, including agricultural value chains, roads, and energy infrastructure.

    Act on the data, not perceptions

    The Bank President went further: “As we build transport corridors, let us also build strategic partnership corridors. Strategic partnerships that prioritize capital investments in infrastructure, agriculture, minerals industrialization, and development of digital infrastructure, as well as capital markets.”

    He charged U.S. investors: “Act on the data, not perceptions. Think Africa. Think opportunities. Think competition. From the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation to the Export-Import Bank of the United States, as well as institutional investors and capital allocations, invest in Africa. Let’s make America and Africa great again.”

    Corporate Council on Africa President Florie Liser challenged summit delegates to embrace true partnership: “Beyond deals, let’s strive for lasting transformation.” As part of the opening ceremony of the Summit, the Corporate Council on Africa honored Dr. Adesina with its Distinguished Economic Leadership Award, recognizing his significant contributions to Africa’s transformation.

    Council Deputy Chairman, Mr. Jean Raymond Boulle, conferred the award, describing how the African Development Bank has impacted millions of Africans under Adesina’s leadership, while transforming the Bank to a world-class institution and a partner of choice.

    Akinwumi Adesina, who will complete his second and final five-year term as President of the African Development Bank Group on 31 August, has led for the past decade transformative projects across Africa under the Bank’s five strategic priorities, the “High 5s”. They have positively impacted the lives of more than 565 million people on the continent.

    Speaking at a high-level event hosted by Africa50, a pioneering infrastructure investment platform dedicated to accelerating project development and delivery across Africa, Adesina emphasized the urgent need to scale local financing solutions—especially in local currencies—to mitigate forex volatility, reduce risk mismatches, and enhance the bankability and stability of infrastructure projects for global investors.

    The event, titled “Unlocking Capital for Africa’s Infrastructure through Innovative Finance,” featured a high-level panel discussion on asset recycling, moderated by CNN’s Richard Quest, with insights from Alain Ebobissé, CEO of Africa50; Brook Taye, Director General of Ethiopia Investment Holdings; and Armando Manuel, Chairman of Fundo Soberano de Angola.

    Together, they explored how innovative models, such as asset recycling, can unlock capital and accelerate infrastructure development across Africa.

    Alain Ebobissé stated that the asset recycling model has been successfully implemented in many countries worldwide.

    “In implementing this initiative in Africa, we are pursuing three objectives. First, monetizing assets—ensuring that, instead of owning only a bridge, you receive cash that you can reinvest in your assets. Second, improving the efficiency of the asset by bringing in first-class operators to help us manage those assets. Third, and most importantly, we aim to bring pension funds and other investors interested in cash flow-generating assets to finance these projects,” Ebobissé explained.

    Adesina said over the past decade, the African Development Bank Group has invested over $55 billion in infrastructure, including regional projects, making the Bank the largest financier of infrastructure in Africa.

    The African Development Bank established Africa50 as a private equity infrastructure platform, comprising a project development company and a project finance company, to support the development of infrastructure with market-rate returns.

    Africa’s missing share of a $2.9 trillion opportunity

    The Bank President informed the audience that, in the past eight years since its establishment, Africa50 has invested in a portfolio of infrastructure projects worth over $8 billion.

    “But more is needed, especially from private sector investors,” stated Adesina. “Africa should be well positioned to attract some of the $2.9 trillion global green bonds. However, the continent represents less than 1% of global green bond issuance. Because most of Africa’s infrastructure is yet to be built, this represents a huge opportunity for green bond issuances to build green infrastructure, reduce carbon emissions, and build climate resilience.”

    The African Development Bank launched the Alliance for Green Infrastructure in Africa (AGIA) to mobilize $500 million for project preparation and development, as well as $10 billion for green infrastructure investments. Africa50 is the General Partner for the AGIA-Project Development Fund, with several Limited Partners, including the G7 countries.

    To mitigate risks at scale across Africa, the African Development Bank is establishing the Africa Risk Mitigation Agency, which will consolidate all banks’ guarantee instruments into a single entity. The entity will support guarantees for equity risk, climate risk, refinancing risk, and political risk.

    He emphasized that Africa50 is also pioneering asset recycling, enabling governments to recover their investment in infrastructure by transferring brownfield assets to the private sector. This can help to reduce debt burdens and provide liquidity for governments.

    “The Senegambia bridge, which the African Development Bank financed with $104 million, was the first to be used for the asset recycling program. It worked successfully, as Gambia received $104 million it spent back through Africa50,” he added. “Following this, several asset recycling initiatives are being proposed for many infrastructure projects financed for governments by the African Development Bank Group.”

    The renewed momentum for U.S.-Africa business partnerships received strong political backing, with the participation of seven Heads of State, several Prime Ministers, and leaders of key regional organizations.

    Attending dignitaries included Presidents Denis Sassou Nguesso (Republic of the Congo), Faustin-Archange Touadéra (Central African Republic), Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo (Democratic Republic of the Congo), Taye Aske Selassie (Ethiopia), Duma Gideon Boko (Botswana), Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah (Namibia), and Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema (Gabon); Prime Ministers Gervais Ndirakobuca (Burundi), Robert Beugré Mambé (Côte d’Ivoire), Russell Mmiso Dlamini (Eswatini), Manuel Osa Nsue Nsua (Equatorial Guinea), Christian Louis Ntsay (Madagascar), and Deputy Prime Minister Nthomeng Justina Majara (Lesotho); as well as Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Ambassador Gilberto Da Piedade Verissimo, Chairperson of the Economic Community of Central African States, and Elias M. Magosi, Executive Secretary of the Southern African Development Community.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

    Media contact:
    Emeka Anuforo
    Communication and External Relations Department
    media@afdb.org

    About the African Development Bank Group:
    The African Development Bank Group is Africa’s premier development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). On the ground in 41 African countries with an external office in Japan, the Bank contributes to the economic development and the social progress of its 54 regional member states. For more information: www.AfDB.org

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. International Transactions, 1st Quarter 2025 and Annual Update

    Source: US Bureau of Economic Analysis

    Current-Account Deficit Widened by 44.3 Percent in the First Quarter

    Current-Account Balance (Table 1 and Chart 1)

    The U.S. current-account deficit, which reflects the combined balances on trade in goods and services and income flows between U.S. residents and residents of other countries, widened by $138.2 billion, or 44.3 percent, to $450.2 billion in the first quarter of 2025, according to statistics released today by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis. The revised fourth-quarter deficit was $312.0 billion (table A).

    The first-quarter deficit was 6.0 percent of current-dollar gross domestic product, up from 4.2 percent in the fourth quarter.

    The $138.2 billion widening of the current-account deficit in the first quarter mostly reflected an expanded deficit on goods.

    Current-Account Transactions (tables 1–5 and chart 2)

    Exports of goods and services to, and income received from, foreign residents decreased $3.9 billion to $1.24 trillion in the first quarter. Imports of goods and services from, and income paid to, foreign residents increased $134.3 billion to $1.69 trillion.1

    Trade in goods (table 2)

    Exports of goods increased $21.1 billion to $539.0 billion, and imports of goods increased $158.2 billion to $1.00 trillion. The increase in exports was led by capital goods, mainly civilian aircraft and computer accessories, peripherals, and parts. The increase in imports was led by nonmonetary gold and consumer goods, mostly medicinal, dental, and pharmaceutical products (see “Additional Information” for a definition of nonmonetary gold under “Goods”).

    Trade in services (table 3)

    Exports of services decreased $4.4 billion to $293.2 billion, reflecting decreases in government goods and services, mostly military units and agencies, in travel, mostly “other personal travel,” and in “other business services,” mainly professional and management consulting services. These decreases were partly offset by an increase in maintenance and repair services. Imports of services decreased $1.8 billion to $217.8 billion, reflecting a decrease in charges for the use of intellectual property, mostly licenses for the use of outcomes of research and development.

    Primary income (table 4)

    Receipts of primary income decreased $22.9 billion to $355.1 billion, and payments of primary income decreased $13.7 billion to $362.7 billion. The decreases in both receipts and payments reflected a decrease in direct investment income, mostly earnings.

    Secondary income (table 5)

    Receipts of secondary income increased $2.3 billion to $49.6 billion, reflecting an increase in private transfers, primarily fines and penalties. Payments of secondary income decreased $8.4 billion to $101.5 billion, reflecting a decrease in general government transfers, primarily international cooperation.

    Capital-Account Transactions (table 1)

    Capital-transfer receipts decreased $2.4 billion to $8.9 billion in the first quarter. The decrease reflected first-quarter receipts from foreign insurance companies for losses resulting from wildfires in Southern California that were lower than fourth-quarter receipts for losses resulting from Hurricane Milton. For information on transactions associated with hurricanes and other disasters, see “How do losses recovered from foreign insurance companies following natural or man-made disasters affect foreign transactions, the current account balance, and net lending or net borrowing?”. Capital-transfer payments increased $0.5 billion to $2.0 billion.

    Financial-Account Transactions (tables 1, 6, 7, and 8 and chart 3)

    Net financial-account transactions were −$299.5 billion in the first quarter, reflecting net U.S. borrowing from foreign residents.

    Financial assets (tables 1, 6, 7, and 8)

    First-quarter transactions increased U.S. residents’ foreign financial assets by $524.9 billion. Transactions increased “other investment assets,” mostly short-term loans, by $328.2 billion; portfolio investment assets, mostly debt securities, by $128.4 billion; direct investment assets, mostly equity, by $66.8 billion; and reserve assets by $1.5 billion.

    Liabilities (tables 1, 6, 7, and 8)

    First-quarter transactions increased U.S. liabilities to foreign residents by $843.7 billion. Transactions increased portfolio investment liabilities, mostly long-term debt securities, by $429.9 billion; “other investment liabilities,” mainly short-term deposits and loans, by $358.9 billion; and direct investment liabilities, mostly equity, by $54.9 billion.

    Financial derivatives (table 1)

    Net transactions in financial derivatives were $19.3 billion in the first quarter, reflecting net U.S. lending to foreign residents.

      

    Table A. Updates to Fourth-Quarter 2024 International Transactions Accounts Balances

    [Billions of dollars, seasonally adjusted]
      Preliminary estimates Revised estimates
    Current-account balance –303.9 −312.0
        Goods balance −326.1 −328.9
        Services balance 76.1 78.0
        Primary income balance 2.3 1.6
        Secondary income balance −56.2 −62.6
    Net financial-account transactions −385.3 −350.8
    U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis

    Annual Update of the U.S. International Transactions Accounts

    The statistics in this release reflect the annual update of the U.S. International Transactions Accounts. With this update, BEA has incorporated newly available and revised source data and recalculated seasonal and trading-day adjustments beginning with 2018. This annual update also reflects the incorporation of (1) BEA’s 2022 Benchmark Survey of Transactions in Selected Services and Intellectual Property With Foreign Persons, (2) a new balance of payments adjustment to exports of goods to redistribute estimates for late receipts for Canada from “other goods” to detailed commodities, (3) a new method for estimating other investment assets and other investment liabilities transactions by maturity, and (4) new statistics for transactions, income, and positions related to a repurchase agreement facility for foreign and international monetary authorities. A summary of the revisions to high-level aggregates is shown in table 9.

    Table B. Newly Available and Revised Source Data: Key Providers and Years Affected

    Agency Data Years affected
    U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis Quarterly and benchmark international trade in services surveys 2018–2024
    Annual and quarterly direct investment surveys 2022–2024
    U.S. Census Bureau Revised source data for international trade in goods 2022–2024
    U.S. Department of the Treasury Quarterly and monthly portfolio and other investment surveys 2022–2024
    Benchmark and quarterly portfolio investment surveys 2023–2024
    U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis

    More information on the annual update is available in “Preview of the 2025 Annual Update of the International Economic Accounts” in the Survey of Current Business. Additional information will be provided in the Survey in July 2025. U.S. International Economic Accounts: Concepts and Methods will be updated in September 2025 accordingly.

    For resources, definitions, and more, visit “Additional Information.”

    Next release: September 23, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. EDT
    U.S. International Transactions, 2nd Quarter 2025

    1 U.S. international transactions are presented in current dollars in accordance with international statistical presentation guidelines. For a comparison of current-dollar, or nominal, and inflation-adjusted, or real, measures of international transactions, see “SECTION 4 – FOREIGN TRANSACTIONS” of the National Income and Product Accounts.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. International Transactions, 1st Quarter 2025 and Annual Update

    Source: US Bureau of Economic Analysis

    Current-Account Deficit Widened by 44.3 Percent in the First Quarter

    Current-Account Balance (Table 1 and Chart 1)

    The U.S. current-account deficit, which reflects the combined balances on trade in goods and services and income flows between U.S. residents and residents of other countries, widened by $138.2 billion, or 44.3 percent, to $450.2 billion in the first quarter of 2025, according to statistics released today by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis. The revised fourth-quarter deficit was $312.0 billion (table A).

    The first-quarter deficit was 6.0 percent of current-dollar gross domestic product, up from 4.2 percent in the fourth quarter.

    The $138.2 billion widening of the current-account deficit in the first quarter mostly reflected an expanded deficit on goods.

    Current-Account Transactions (tables 1–5 and chart 2)

    Exports of goods and services to, and income received from, foreign residents decreased $3.9 billion to $1.24 trillion in the first quarter. Imports of goods and services from, and income paid to, foreign residents increased $134.3 billion to $1.69 trillion.1

    Trade in goods (table 2)

    Exports of goods increased $21.1 billion to $539.0 billion, and imports of goods increased $158.2 billion to $1.00 trillion. The increase in exports was led by capital goods, mainly civilian aircraft and computer accessories, peripherals, and parts. The increase in imports was led by nonmonetary gold and consumer goods, mostly medicinal, dental, and pharmaceutical products (see “Additional Information” for a definition of nonmonetary gold under “Goods”).

    Trade in services (table 3)

    Exports of services decreased $4.4 billion to $293.2 billion, reflecting decreases in government goods and services, mostly military units and agencies, in travel, mostly “other personal travel,” and in “other business services,” mainly professional and management consulting services. These decreases were partly offset by an increase in maintenance and repair services. Imports of services decreased $1.8 billion to $217.8 billion, reflecting a decrease in charges for the use of intellectual property, mostly licenses for the use of outcomes of research and development.

    Primary income (table 4)

    Receipts of primary income decreased $22.9 billion to $355.1 billion, and payments of primary income decreased $13.7 billion to $362.7 billion. The decreases in both receipts and payments reflected a decrease in direct investment income, mostly earnings.

    Secondary income (table 5)

    Receipts of secondary income increased $2.3 billion to $49.6 billion, reflecting an increase in private transfers, primarily fines and penalties. Payments of secondary income decreased $8.4 billion to $101.5 billion, reflecting a decrease in general government transfers, primarily international cooperation.

    Capital-Account Transactions (table 1)

    Capital-transfer receipts decreased $2.4 billion to $8.9 billion in the first quarter. The decrease reflected first-quarter receipts from foreign insurance companies for losses resulting from wildfires in Southern California that were lower than fourth-quarter receipts for losses resulting from Hurricane Milton. For information on transactions associated with hurricanes and other disasters, see “How do losses recovered from foreign insurance companies following natural or man-made disasters affect foreign transactions, the current account balance, and net lending or net borrowing?”. Capital-transfer payments increased $0.5 billion to $2.0 billion.

    Financial-Account Transactions (tables 1, 6, 7, and 8 and chart 3)

    Net financial-account transactions were −$299.5 billion in the first quarter, reflecting net U.S. borrowing from foreign residents.

    Financial assets (tables 1, 6, 7, and 8)

    First-quarter transactions increased U.S. residents’ foreign financial assets by $524.9 billion. Transactions increased “other investment assets,” mostly short-term loans, by $328.2 billion; portfolio investment assets, mostly debt securities, by $128.4 billion; direct investment assets, mostly equity, by $66.8 billion; and reserve assets by $1.5 billion.

    Liabilities (tables 1, 6, 7, and 8)

    First-quarter transactions increased U.S. liabilities to foreign residents by $843.7 billion. Transactions increased portfolio investment liabilities, mostly long-term debt securities, by $429.9 billion; “other investment liabilities,” mainly short-term deposits and loans, by $358.9 billion; and direct investment liabilities, mostly equity, by $54.9 billion.

    Financial derivatives (table 1)

    Net transactions in financial derivatives were $19.3 billion in the first quarter, reflecting net U.S. lending to foreign residents.

      

    Table A. Updates to Fourth-Quarter 2024 International Transactions Accounts Balances

    [Billions of dollars, seasonally adjusted]
      Preliminary estimates Revised estimates
    Current-account balance –303.9 −312.0
        Goods balance −326.1 −328.9
        Services balance 76.1 78.0
        Primary income balance 2.3 1.6
        Secondary income balance −56.2 −62.6
    Net financial-account transactions −385.3 −350.8
    U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis

    Annual Update of the U.S. International Transactions Accounts

    The statistics in this release reflect the annual update of the U.S. International Transactions Accounts. With this update, BEA has incorporated newly available and revised source data and recalculated seasonal and trading-day adjustments beginning with 2018. This annual update also reflects the incorporation of (1) BEA’s 2022 Benchmark Survey of Transactions in Selected Services and Intellectual Property With Foreign Persons, (2) a new balance of payments adjustment to exports of goods to redistribute estimates for late receipts for Canada from “other goods” to detailed commodities, (3) a new method for estimating other investment assets and other investment liabilities transactions by maturity, and (4) new statistics for transactions, income, and positions related to a repurchase agreement facility for foreign and international monetary authorities. A summary of the revisions to high-level aggregates is shown in table 9.

    Table B. Newly Available and Revised Source Data: Key Providers and Years Affected

    Agency Data Years affected
    U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis Quarterly and benchmark international trade in services surveys 2018–2024
    Annual and quarterly direct investment surveys 2022–2024
    U.S. Census Bureau Revised source data for international trade in goods 2022–2024
    U.S. Department of the Treasury Quarterly and monthly portfolio and other investment surveys 2022–2024
    Benchmark and quarterly portfolio investment surveys 2023–2024
    U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis

    More information on the annual update is available in “Preview of the 2025 Annual Update of the International Economic Accounts” in the Survey of Current Business. Additional information will be provided in the Survey in July 2025. U.S. International Economic Accounts: Concepts and Methods will be updated in September 2025 accordingly.

    For resources, definitions, and more, visit “Additional Information.”

    Next release: September 23, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. EDT
    U.S. International Transactions, 2nd Quarter 2025

    1 U.S. international transactions are presented in current dollars in accordance with international statistical presentation guidelines. For a comparison of current-dollar, or nominal, and inflation-adjusted, or real, measures of international transactions, see “SECTION 4 – FOREIGN TRANSACTIONS” of the National Income and Product Accounts.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NSF Graduate Research Fellow’s work on light contributes to nanodot breakthrough 

    Source: US Government research organizations

    Americans spend a lot of time on their screens. The images on those screens are made of pixels — tiny dots that represent a single point of color. Scientists from Penn State, including NSF Graduate Research Fellow Nicholas Trainer, recently discovered a process that can make the images on phones, monitors and TVs even brighter.

    The Penn State research shows that light emitted from 2D materials can be changed by embedding a second, very small (80,000 times smaller than the width of a human hair) 2D material inside them, called a nanodot. By controlling the size of the nanodot through a process called quantum confinement, scientists can change the color and frequency of the emitted light.

    Credit: Nasim Alem, Penn State University

    On the left is an illustration of the experimental setup from this study. Molybdenum diselenide nanodots, represented by red triangles, are embedded in tungsten diselenide and encapsulated by hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) on top and bottom. A focused electron beam, shown in green, in a scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM) is aimed at the structure. The emitted light is collected to generate an intensity map. On the upper right is a dark-field STEM image of the molybdenum diselenide nanodot embedded inside tungsten diselenide. The contour of the nanodot is marked by dotted green lines. On the lower right is an artificially colored light emission intensity map of the same region, with the localized emission from the nanodot clearly visible

    “Think about how OLED [technology used in our digital screens] displays work,” says Saiphaneendra Bachu, lead author of the study. “Each pixel has its own tiny light source behind it, so you can control the exact color or brightness of each one. This lets the screen show true black and accurate colors like red, green and blue. If you improve this process, you make the picture much sharper and more vibrant.”

    Improved quantum computing has implications for fields ranging from cybersecurity (it could make one’s online presence, transactions and the wider web more secure) to developing new materials and drugs to improving the efficiency and accuracy of artificial intelligence/machine learning algorithms.

    The nanodot discovery will have uses beyond sharper and more efficient displays on screens. The “quantum confinement” that the scientists achieved with the nanodots creates a type of fundamental particle called an “exciton” that transports energy but doesn’t carry a charge. Excitons influence how semiconductors behave, and being able to precisely control the excitons (which this new development allows) can lead to faster and more secure quantum computing.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: UConn Hartford Receives $500,000 from The Hartford to Support Student Housing Scholarships

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    The UConn Foundation has received a $500,000 gift from The Hartford to provide housing scholarships for students in a new residence hall on Pratt Street in Hartford, set to open in fall 2026.

    The gift underscores The Hartford’s commitment to making education accessible and affordable for local students. The scholarships will help ensure that students with financial need can access the new apartment-style housing, which will accommodate 200 students and mark a new chapter in UConn Hartford’s growth.

    “I am deeply grateful to The Hartford for their generous gift to the UConn Hartford residence hall,” says Mark Overmyer-Velázquez, UConn Hartford’s campus dean and chief administrative officer. “This investment in our students is also an investment in Hartford’s future. Together we are helping to create a more vibrant, dynamic downtown where students can live, learn, and contribute to the city’s growth.”

    The University is currently transforming a former law office at 64 Pratt Street into a vibrant residential space, creating a community-focused living experience for qualified students in the heart of Hartford.

    “We are proud to continue our partnership with UConn Hartford – an institution that shares our commitment to the city we call home,” says The Hartford’s Chief Marketing and Communications Officer Claire Burns. “By supporting housing scholarships for students, we are removing financial barriers and providing students with greater access to opportunities. This gift not only supports students in their academic journey but also contributes to a more active and connected community.”

    This is The Hartford’s second major gift to UConn in recent years. In 2021, the insurance company gave $1 million to create The Hartford Scholars Program, which provided financial support and mentoring for 50 UConn Hartford students.

    The student housing support will help address a pressing need on the Hartford campus, where about 86 percent of students received some form of financial aid last year. Approximately 58 percent received federal Pell Grants, which are awarded to the neediest students.

    In a survey, about 70% of UConn Hartford students said they would like student housing, but it would need to be affordable since many live with their parents.

    UConn’s presence in Hartford continues to grow as the University deepens its ties with the capital city. This fall, the University will open a new café in the downtown campus in the former Hartford Times building. UConn also recently opened a research center near PeoplesBank Arena, formerly known as the XL Center.

    Support the Hartford Residential Scholars Enhancement Fund.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: A Vibrant Partnership: UConn Husky Nutrition & Sport and Hartford Public Schools Support Healthy Eating and Physical Activity for Over 20 Years

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    UConn Husky Nutrition & Sport has been supporting Connecticut children, families, and educators for decades, promoting healthy eating and physical activity through impactful educational programs. Although the campus-community partnership has connections throughout the state, it has partnered with one Hartford elementary school since 2005. For the past nine years, that school has been Fred D. Wish Museum School, where UConn Husky Nutrition & Sport (UConn HNS) works alongside students, staff, families, and community partners to offer more than 600 educational program sessions a year.

    “UConn HNS people bring such an impactful energy to our school community,” says principal Kesha Ryan. “They know our students, and our students know them, which is a real credit to the investments they make to build positive relationships. It’s an extensive partnership in that their presence is a part of our everyday activities. Our staff and families can depend on their staff and programs, our students have fun and learn about healthy eating and exercise, and we maintain regular collaboration in support of the students and community of Wish School.”

    The hundreds of sessions at Wish School span all grade levels and are offered during the school day, after school, and as schoolwide initiatives. The educational sessions focus on a variety of topics: nutrition lessons based on the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s MyPlate initiative, hands-on healthy snack prep and tastings, active games, sport-sampling, and literacy skills.

    UConn students receive hands-on experiential learning while leading programs at Wish School. (UConn HNS photo)

    In addition, past schoolwide initiatives that UConn HNS has supported have included new recess equipment, indoor and outdoor recess campaigns, new policies such as healthy classroom checklists, the integration of positive behavioral interventions and supports, teacher appreciation days, family events, cultural celebrations, field trips to UConn, activities surrounding National Nutrition Month in March, and support for the growing Wish Media Club.

    The vibrant partnership has a lot of moving parts that require collaboration to ensure everything continues to work effectively. Logistically, staff, schedules, school committees, and lesson plans all have to align, while also allowing time for feedback and evaluation to support improvement.

    “We take a lot of pride in our ability to build meaningful relationships with individual people, while also maintaining lines of communication and systems that allow for us to serve as a strong and reliable partner,” says Patricia Bellamy-Mathis ’11 (BUS), ’13 MSW, who is UConn HNS’s director of partnerships and programs. “Being part of the fabric and culture of Wish School requires a great deal of time and investment, but the impacts show themselves every single day.”

    The partnership doesn’t go just one way, however, as UConn students receive hands-on experiential learning while leading programs at Wish School. Every year, UConn HNS recruits and funds 10-12 graduate assistants completing master’s and doctoral degrees across multiple University programs. To date, more than 100 graduate students have benefited from professional development through UConn HNS.

    UConn HNS people bring such an impactful energy to our school community. They know our students, and our students know them, which is a real credit to the investments they make to build positive relationships. &#8212 Kesha Ryan, principal of Fred D. Wish Museum School

    “We bring together a group of graduate students who all show up every day at Wish School committed to cultivating an environment that is full of fun, connection, and learning,” says Veronica Jacobs ’16 (CLAS), who currently leads 12 graduate students at Wish School. “The strength of our team lies in our graduate assistants coming from several academic disciplines with varying career goals, and in our ability to challenge and support each other to become better professionals. One moment we are celebrating the successful delivery of a lesson and in another moment, we are critically reflecting on creative ways to improve our programs. The intention of our efforts shows in the joy of our Wish students as they walk the halls with us, compete against us in a relay race, or see us in the community.”

    “Welcoming UConn students into our Wish family each year is always exciting,” Ryan says. “While they support our students with health education and bring positivity to our community, we are able to support their experiential learning and growth as future educators, social workers, health professionals, and more. As a team, we are shaping future professionals both at the elementary and collegiate levels. It’s a win-win partnership.”

    UConn HNS is housed within the Neag School of Education and works closely with students in the School’s Integrated Bachelor’s/Master’s (IB/M) teacher preparation program. These future teachers gain practical experience working in Wish School, as well as the opportunity to conduct educational research.

    “UConn HNS provides education students unique opportunities to grow in their community skills,” says Austina Lee, an assistant clinical professor at the Neag School who supports the IB/M program and its students. “The co-teaching model wherein they collaborate with peers from across specialties, the professional development sessions that inspire innovative approaches, and the community engagement that open their eyes to the lived experiences of students and their families all coalesce to inform robust inquiry and practical research. IB/M students who participate in HNS graduate with a depth and breadth of experiences that expand their instructional skills and enhance their expression through the art of teaching.”

    Sarah Lockwood ’24 (ED), ’25 MA shows Wish School students her decorated mortarboard during the school’s 2025 Grad Walk. (UConn HNS photo)

    Several special events throughout the year bring UConn and Wish students together and cultivate extra joy for the community. Every May, Wish School celebrates the UConn students who are graduating with the annual Grad Walk. Wish School students and staff line the hallways of the school to cheer on the graduating Huskies that worked there. Another annual tradition is Wish School Field Day, which involves the whole school every June and acts as an introduction to UConn HNS’s new summer team. UConn students lead and play alongside the children in such activities as relay races, tug-of-war, foursquare, parachutes, hula-hoop competitions, and soccer games.

    New this year was the Healthy Wish School Walk-A-Thon, which was created to celebrate a year of fun, physical activity at the school. Led by UConn HNS staff and hosted in the outside play area of Wish School, all students and staff were invited to participate throughout the day in a one-mile walking course that included activities along the way for hydration, healthy snacks, and a jump rope challenge. By the end of the day, Wish School students and staff combined to walk more than 440 miles.

    “UConn Husky Nutrition & Sport’s long-standing relationship with Hartford Public Schools, and specifically Wish School, exemplifies the potential and power of ‘town-gown’ partnerships,” says Neag School Dean Jason G. Irizarry. “I’m proud that UConn HNS’s ongoing efforts across the state recently earned them the 2025 Staff Team Award in the Provost’s Awards for Excellence in Community-Engaged Scholarship. I also congratulate them on their outstanding recent fundraising efforts, including winning the President’s and Provost’s Project Leaderboard Challenge during UConn Gives 2025. The dedication of UConn HNS’s staff and students changes lives across Connecticut, ensuring adults and children can access nutrition and physical activity education.”

    To learn more about UConn Husky Nutrition & Sport, visit huskynutritionsport.education.uconn.edu.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: A Vibrant Partnership: UConn Husky Nutrition & Sport and Hartford Public Schools Support Healthy Eating and Physical Activity for Over 20 Years

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    UConn Husky Nutrition & Sport has been supporting Connecticut children, families, and educators for decades, promoting healthy eating and physical activity through impactful educational programs. Although the campus-community partnership has connections throughout the state, it has partnered with one Hartford elementary school since 2005. For the past nine years, that school has been Fred D. Wish Museum School, where UConn Husky Nutrition & Sport (UConn HNS) works alongside students, staff, families, and community partners to offer more than 600 educational program sessions a year.

    “UConn HNS people bring such an impactful energy to our school community,” says principal Kesha Ryan. “They know our students, and our students know them, which is a real credit to the investments they make to build positive relationships. It’s an extensive partnership in that their presence is a part of our everyday activities. Our staff and families can depend on their staff and programs, our students have fun and learn about healthy eating and exercise, and we maintain regular collaboration in support of the students and community of Wish School.”

    The hundreds of sessions at Wish School span all grade levels and are offered during the school day, after school, and as schoolwide initiatives. The educational sessions focus on a variety of topics: nutrition lessons based on the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s MyPlate initiative, hands-on healthy snack prep and tastings, active games, sport-sampling, and literacy skills.

    UConn students receive hands-on experiential learning while leading programs at Wish School. (UConn HNS photo)

    In addition, past schoolwide initiatives that UConn HNS has supported have included new recess equipment, indoor and outdoor recess campaigns, new policies such as healthy classroom checklists, the integration of positive behavioral interventions and supports, teacher appreciation days, family events, cultural celebrations, field trips to UConn, activities surrounding National Nutrition Month in March, and support for the growing Wish Media Club.

    The vibrant partnership has a lot of moving parts that require collaboration to ensure everything continues to work effectively. Logistically, staff, schedules, school committees, and lesson plans all have to align, while also allowing time for feedback and evaluation to support improvement.

    “We take a lot of pride in our ability to build meaningful relationships with individual people, while also maintaining lines of communication and systems that allow for us to serve as a strong and reliable partner,” says Patricia Bellamy-Mathis ’11 (BUS), ’13 MSW, who is UConn HNS’s director of partnerships and programs. “Being part of the fabric and culture of Wish School requires a great deal of time and investment, but the impacts show themselves every single day.”

    The partnership doesn’t go just one way, however, as UConn students receive hands-on experiential learning while leading programs at Wish School. Every year, UConn HNS recruits and funds 10-12 graduate assistants completing master’s and doctoral degrees across multiple University programs. To date, more than 100 graduate students have benefited from professional development through UConn HNS.

    UConn HNS people bring such an impactful energy to our school community. They know our students, and our students know them, which is a real credit to the investments they make to build positive relationships. &#8212 Kesha Ryan, principal of Fred D. Wish Museum School

    “We bring together a group of graduate students who all show up every day at Wish School committed to cultivating an environment that is full of fun, connection, and learning,” says Veronica Jacobs ’16 (CLAS), who currently leads 12 graduate students at Wish School. “The strength of our team lies in our graduate assistants coming from several academic disciplines with varying career goals, and in our ability to challenge and support each other to become better professionals. One moment we are celebrating the successful delivery of a lesson and in another moment, we are critically reflecting on creative ways to improve our programs. The intention of our efforts shows in the joy of our Wish students as they walk the halls with us, compete against us in a relay race, or see us in the community.”

    “Welcoming UConn students into our Wish family each year is always exciting,” Ryan says. “While they support our students with health education and bring positivity to our community, we are able to support their experiential learning and growth as future educators, social workers, health professionals, and more. As a team, we are shaping future professionals both at the elementary and collegiate levels. It’s a win-win partnership.”

    UConn HNS is housed within the Neag School of Education and works closely with students in the School’s Integrated Bachelor’s/Master’s (IB/M) teacher preparation program. These future teachers gain practical experience working in Wish School, as well as the opportunity to conduct educational research.

    “UConn HNS provides education students unique opportunities to grow in their community skills,” says Austina Lee, an assistant clinical professor at the Neag School who supports the IB/M program and its students. “The co-teaching model wherein they collaborate with peers from across specialties, the professional development sessions that inspire innovative approaches, and the community engagement that open their eyes to the lived experiences of students and their families all coalesce to inform robust inquiry and practical research. IB/M students who participate in HNS graduate with a depth and breadth of experiences that expand their instructional skills and enhance their expression through the art of teaching.”

    Sarah Lockwood ’24 (ED), ’25 MA shows Wish School students her decorated mortarboard during the school’s 2025 Grad Walk. (UConn HNS photo)

    Several special events throughout the year bring UConn and Wish students together and cultivate extra joy for the community. Every May, Wish School celebrates the UConn students who are graduating with the annual Grad Walk. Wish School students and staff line the hallways of the school to cheer on the graduating Huskies that worked there. Another annual tradition is Wish School Field Day, which involves the whole school every June and acts as an introduction to UConn HNS’s new summer team. UConn students lead and play alongside the children in such activities as relay races, tug-of-war, foursquare, parachutes, hula-hoop competitions, and soccer games.

    New this year was the Healthy Wish School Walk-A-Thon, which was created to celebrate a year of fun, physical activity at the school. Led by UConn HNS staff and hosted in the outside play area of Wish School, all students and staff were invited to participate throughout the day in a one-mile walking course that included activities along the way for hydration, healthy snacks, and a jump rope challenge. By the end of the day, Wish School students and staff combined to walk more than 440 miles.

    “UConn Husky Nutrition & Sport’s long-standing relationship with Hartford Public Schools, and specifically Wish School, exemplifies the potential and power of ‘town-gown’ partnerships,” says Neag School Dean Jason G. Irizarry. “I’m proud that UConn HNS’s ongoing efforts across the state recently earned them the 2025 Staff Team Award in the Provost’s Awards for Excellence in Community-Engaged Scholarship. I also congratulate them on their outstanding recent fundraising efforts, including winning the President’s and Provost’s Project Leaderboard Challenge during UConn Gives 2025. The dedication of UConn HNS’s staff and students changes lives across Connecticut, ensuring adults and children can access nutrition and physical activity education.”

    To learn more about UConn Husky Nutrition & Sport, visit huskynutritionsport.education.uconn.edu.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. and Qatari Forces Successfully Defend Against Iranian Ballistic Missile Attack on Qatar’s Al-Udeid Air Base

    Source: United States Central Command (CENTCOM)

    TAMPA, Fla. – Today, U.S. forces, alongside our Qatari partners, successfully defended against an Iranian ballistic missile attack targeting Qatar’s Al-Udeid Air Base near Doha, Qatar.

    Thanks to the professional, competent, rapid and coordinated response of U.S. and Qatari forces, the ballistic missile attack was defeated by U.S. and Qatari Patriot batteries and there were no casualties to American or Qatari personnel.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. and Qatari Forces Successfully Defend Against Iranian Ballistic Missile Attack on Qatar’s Al-Udeid Air Base

    Source: United States Central Command (CENTCOM)

    TAMPA, Fla. – Today, U.S. forces, alongside our Qatari partners, successfully defended against an Iranian ballistic missile attack targeting Qatar’s Al-Udeid Air Base near Doha, Qatar.

    Thanks to the professional, competent, rapid and coordinated response of U.S. and Qatari forces, the ballistic missile attack was defeated by U.S. and Qatari Patriot batteries and there were no casualties to American or Qatari personnel.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Volta Finance Limited – Net Asset Value(s) as at 31 May 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Volta Finance Limited (VTA / VTAS)
    May 2025 monthly report

    NOT FOR RELEASE, DISTRIBUTION, OR PUBLICATION, IN WHOLE OR PART, IN OR INTO THE UNITED STATES

    Guernsey, June 24, 2025

    AXA IM has published the Volta Finance Limited (the “Company” or “Volta Finance” or “Volta”) monthly report for May 2025. The full report is attached to this release and will be available on Volta’s website shortly (www.voltafinance.com).

    Performance and Portfolio Activity

    Dear Investors,

    In May, Volta Finance’s net performance reached +3.3% bringing the performance from August 2024 to date to +10.7%. Our investments in CLO Debt and CLO Equity recovered some of their post-liberation day volatility due to improved market sentiment.

    May saw a more positive macroeconomic environment, helping markets recover most of the losses from the previous month. The 90-day tariff rollback from Washington towards China signaled a pause in the U.S. Both European and US Equity markets rose sharply, while credit indices showed a V-shaped recovery. U.S. 30-year Treasury yields rose above 5% for the first time since October 2023 after Moody’s downgraded the U.S. credit rating. Although yields fell back later in the month, this jump reminded investors of ongoing worries about fiscal health.

    In terms of macroeconomic data, US inflation was encouraging as CPIs cooled to 2.3 % year-on-year while the euro-area inflation held at 2.2 %. Impacted by tariffs, the U.S. Q1 GDP contracted by an annualized 0.3 % due to pre-tariff stockpiling, while the Eurozone experienced growth of +0.3% quarter-on-quarter, supported by resilient demand in the Services industry. Labor markets also showed positive figures on both sides of the Atlantic, with the euro-area unemployment rate reaching a record-low of 6.2 % notably.

    Credit markets performed strongly in May. The European High Yield index (Xover) was around 50bps tighter and closed 300bps. On the Loan side, Euro Loans closed almost 1pt up at 97.80px (Morningstar European Leveraged Loan Index) while US Loans closed c. 1 pt up at 96.70px. The primary CLO markets were active again, with levels tightening across the capital structure, notably with BBs in the Mid +500bps. In terms of performance, US BBs total returned +3% on the month. For comparison, US High Yield returned +1.7% in the same period while Euro High Yield was down +1.3% and Global Loans up +1.5%.

    In terms of loan fundamentals, default rates remained steady at 4.4% in the US (including Liability Management Exercises) but we noticed an uptick in downgrades with 12% of B- exposures downgraded down to CCC category by S&P in the US loan market.

    Due to ongoing uncertainties, we consciously decided not to fully reinvest our 16% cash position at the end of April. We ended May with c.10% of Volta’s NAV in cash, with capital deployment into €10.7m of CLO debt tranches as well as into our 2 warehouses. Our European CLO warehouse was converted into an effective CLO Equity at the end of the month. In addition, Volta Finance’s cashflow generation remained stable at €28.1m equivalent in interests and coupons over the last six months, representing close to 21% of May’s NAV on an annualized basis.

    Over the month, Volta’s CLO Equity tranches returned +5.9%** while CLO Debt tranches returned +2.8% performance**. The dollar slipped to a six-week low against the Euro at $1.15 per Euro with very limited impact of our long dollar exposure in terms of performance (-0.02%). In this uncertain macroeconomic environment, we have kept our net long USD exposure at c.13% to limit the potential for margin calls.

    As of end of May 2025, Volta’s NAV was €271.8m, i.e. €7.43 per share.

    *It should be noted that approximately 0.24% of Volta’s GAV comprises investments for which the relevant NAVs as at the month-end date are normally available only after Volta’s NAV has already been published. Volta’s policy is to publish its NAV on as timely a basis as possible to provide shareholders with Volta’s appropriately up-to-date NAV information. Consequently, such investments are valued using the most recently available NAV for each fund or quoted price for such subordinated notes. The most recently available fund NAV or quoted price was 0.17% as at 30 April 2025, 0.07% as at 31 March 2025.

    ** “performances” of asset classes are calculated as the Dietz-performance of the assets in each bucket, taking into account the Mark-to-Market of the assets at period ends, payments received from the assets over the period, and ignoring changes in cross-currency rates. Nevertheless, some residual currency effects could impact the aggregate value of the portfolio when aggregating each bucket.

    CONTACTS

    For the Investment Manager
    AXA Investment Managers Paris
    François Touati
    francois.touati@axa-im.com        
    +33 (0) 1 44 45 80 22

    Olivier Pons
    Olivier.pons@axa-im.com
    +33 (0) 1 44 45 87 30        

    Company Secretary and Administrator
    BNP Paribas S.A, Guernsey Branch
    guernsey.bp2s.volta.cosec@bnpparibas.com 
    +44 (0) 1481 750 853

    Corporate Broker
    Cavendish Securities plc
    Andrew Worne
    Daniel Balabanoff
    +44 (0) 20 7397 8900

    *****
    ABOUT VOLTA FINANCE LIMITED

    Volta Finance Limited is incorporated in Guernsey under The Companies (Guernsey) Law, 2008 (as amended) and listed on Euronext Amsterdam and the London Stock Exchange’s Main Market for listed securities. Volta’s home member state for the purposes of the EU Transparency Directive is the Netherlands. As such, Volta is subject to regulation and supervision by the AFM, being the regulator for financial markets in the Netherlands.

    Volta’s Investment objectives are to preserve its capital across the credit cycle and to provide a stable stream of income to its Shareholders through dividends that it expects to distribute on a quarterly basis. The Company currently seeks to achieve its investment objectives by pursuing exposure predominantly to CLO’s and similar asset classes. A more diversified investment strategy across structured finance assets may be pursued opportunistically. The Company has appointed AXA Investment Managers Paris an investment management company with a division specialised in structured credit, for the investment management of all its assets.

    *****

    ABOUT AXA INVESTMENT MANAGERS
    AXA Investment Managers (AXA IM) is a multi-expert asset management company within the AXA Group, a global leader in financial protection and wealth management. AXA IM is one of the largest European-based asset managers with 2,800 professionals and €859 billion in assets under management as of the end of June 2024.  

    *****

    This press release is published by AXA Investment Managers Paris (“AXA IM”), in its capacity as alternative investment fund manager (within the meaning of Directive 2011/61/EU, the “AIFM Directive”) of Volta Finance Limited (the “Volta Finance”) whose portfolio is managed by AXA IM.

    This press release is for information only and does not constitute an invitation or inducement to acquire shares in Volta Finance. Its circulation may be prohibited in certain jurisdictions and no recipient may circulate copies of this document in breach of such limitations or restrictions. This document is not an offer for sale of the securities referred to herein in the United States or to persons who are “U.S. persons” for purposes of Regulation S under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), or otherwise in circumstances where such offer would be restricted by applicable law. Such securities may not be sold in the United States absent registration or an exemption from registration from the Securities Act. Volta Finance does not intend to register any portion of the offer of such securities in the United States or to conduct a public offering of such securities in the United States.

    *****

    This communication is only being distributed to and is only directed at (i) persons who are outside the United Kingdom or (ii) investment professionals falling within Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 (the “Order”) or (iii) high net worth companies, and other persons to whom it may lawfully be communicated, falling within Article 49(2)(a) to (d) of the Order (all such persons together being referred to as “relevant persons”). The securities referred to herein are only available to, and any invitation, offer or agreement to subscribe, purchase or otherwise acquire such securities will be engaged in only with, relevant persons. Any person who is not a relevant person should not act or rely on this document or any of its contents. Past performance cannot be relied on as a guide to future performance.

    *****
    This press release contains statements that are, or may deemed to be, “forward-looking statements”. These forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology, including the terms “believes”, “anticipated”, “expects”, “intends”, “is/are expected”, “may”, “will” or “should”. They include the statements regarding the level of the dividend, the current market context and its impact on the long-term return of Volta Finance’s investments. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties and readers are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. Volta Finance’s actual results, portfolio composition and performance may differ materially from the impression created by the forward-looking statements. AXA IM does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking statements.

    Any target information is based on certain assumptions as to future events which may not prove to be realised. Due to the uncertainty surrounding these future events, the targets are not intended to be and should not be regarded as profits or earnings or any other type of forecasts. There can be no assurance that any of these targets will be achieved. In addition, no assurance can be given that the investment objective will be achieved.

    The figures provided that relate to past months or years and past performance cannot be relied on as a guide to future performance or construed as a reliable indicator as to future performance. Throughout this review, the citation of specific trades or strategies is intended to illustrate some of the investment methodologies and philosophies of Volta Finance, as implemented by AXA IM. The historical success or AXA IM’s belief in the future success, of any of these trades or strategies is not indicative of, and has no bearing on, future results.

    The valuation of financial assets can vary significantly from the prices that the AXA IM could obtain if it sought to liquidate the positions on behalf of the Volta Finance due to market conditions and general economic environment. Such valuations do not constitute a fairness or similar opinion and should not be regarded as such.

    Editor: AXA INVESTMENT MANAGERS PARIS, a company incorporated under the laws of France, having its registered office located at Tour Majunga, 6, Place de la Pyramide – 92800 Puteaux. AXA IMP is authorized by the Autorité des Marchés Financiers under registration number GP92008 as an alternative investment fund manager within the meaning of the AIFM Directive.

    *****

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Red White & Bloom Brands Announces New Date for Annual General Meeting

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Red White & Bloom Brands Inc. (CSE: RWB) (“RWB” or the “Company”) announces that its Annual General Meeting (“AGM”), originally scheduled for Friday, June 27, 2025, has been rescheduled to Friday, July 11, 2025. The change will allow for the completion and filing of the Company’s audited financial statements and accompanying management discussion and analysis for the year-ended December 31, 2024, both of which will be presented at the AGM. The change to the annual general meeting date is permissible in accordance with the record date established for the AGM.

    The AGM will be held at the same time and location as indicated in the proxy materials mailed to shareholders on May 28, 2025, which remain available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and on the Company’s website at: https://ir.redwhitebloom.com/news-events/ir-calendar.

    Voting remains open and shareholders may cast their votes until 8:00 am Pacific Time on Wednesday, July 9, 2025. The Company confirms that no new proxy materials will be issued in connection with the rescheduled AGM, and that the previously distributed proxy materials remain valid for use at the rescheduled meeting.

    About Red White & Bloom Brands Inc.

    Red White & Bloom Brands is a multi-jurisdictional cannabis operator and house of premium brands operating in the United States, Canada and internationally. The Company is predominantly focusing its investments on major U.S. markets, including California, Florida, Missouri, Michigan, and Ohio in addition to Canadian and international markets.

    Red White & Bloom Brands Inc.
    Investor and Media Relations
    Edoardo Mattei, CFO
    IR@RedWhiteBloom.com
    947-225-0503

    Visit us on the web: https://www.redwhitebloom.com/.

    Follow us on social media:

    Twitter @rwbbrands

    Facebook @redwhitebloombrands

    Instagram @redwhitebloombrands

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

    FORWARD LOOKING INFORMATION

    Certain information contained in this news release may constitute “forward-looking information” or “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information is often identified by the use of words such as “plans,” “expects,” “may,” “should,” “could,” “will,” “intends,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “forecasts,” or variations of such words and phrases, including the negative forms thereof, as well as terms such as “pro forma” and “scheduled,” and similar expressions that refer to future events or outcomes.

    Forward-looking statements in this release include, without limitation, statements regarding the rescheduled date of the AGM, the anticipated completion and filing of the Company’s audited financial statements and accompanying management’s discussion and analysis, and the timing of shareholder voting.

    Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause actual results, performance, or achievements of the Company to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, delays in the preparation or filing of financial statements; the ability to meet regulatory and stock exchange requirements; market conditions; and other risks relating to the Company’s business and financial condition.

    There can be no assurance that such forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

    The Company disclaims any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information contained herein, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws.

    THE FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS NEWS RELEASE REPRESENTS THE COMPANY’S EXPECTATIONS AS OF THE DATE OF THIS NEWS RELEASE AND, ACCORDINGLY, IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE AFTER SUCH DATE. READERS SHOULD NOT PLACE UNDUE IMPORTANCE ON FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION AND SHOULD NOT RELY UPON THIS INFORMATION AS OF ANY OTHER DATE. WHILE THE COMPANY MAY ELECT TO, IT DOES NOT UNDERTAKE TO UPDATE THIS INFORMATION AT ANY PARTICULAR TIME EXCEPT AS REQUIRED IN ACCORDANCE WITH APPLICABLE LAWS.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Red White & Bloom Brands Announces New Date for Annual General Meeting

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Red White & Bloom Brands Inc. (CSE: RWB) (“RWB” or the “Company”) announces that its Annual General Meeting (“AGM”), originally scheduled for Friday, June 27, 2025, has been rescheduled to Friday, July 11, 2025. The change will allow for the completion and filing of the Company’s audited financial statements and accompanying management discussion and analysis for the year-ended December 31, 2024, both of which will be presented at the AGM. The change to the annual general meeting date is permissible in accordance with the record date established for the AGM.

    The AGM will be held at the same time and location as indicated in the proxy materials mailed to shareholders on May 28, 2025, which remain available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and on the Company’s website at: https://ir.redwhitebloom.com/news-events/ir-calendar.

    Voting remains open and shareholders may cast their votes until 8:00 am Pacific Time on Wednesday, July 9, 2025. The Company confirms that no new proxy materials will be issued in connection with the rescheduled AGM, and that the previously distributed proxy materials remain valid for use at the rescheduled meeting.

    About Red White & Bloom Brands Inc.

    Red White & Bloom Brands is a multi-jurisdictional cannabis operator and house of premium brands operating in the United States, Canada and internationally. The Company is predominantly focusing its investments on major U.S. markets, including California, Florida, Missouri, Michigan, and Ohio in addition to Canadian and international markets.

    Red White & Bloom Brands Inc.
    Investor and Media Relations
    Edoardo Mattei, CFO
    IR@RedWhiteBloom.com
    947-225-0503

    Visit us on the web: https://www.redwhitebloom.com/.

    Follow us on social media:

    Twitter @rwbbrands

    Facebook @redwhitebloombrands

    Instagram @redwhitebloombrands

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

    FORWARD LOOKING INFORMATION

    Certain information contained in this news release may constitute “forward-looking information” or “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information is often identified by the use of words such as “plans,” “expects,” “may,” “should,” “could,” “will,” “intends,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “forecasts,” or variations of such words and phrases, including the negative forms thereof, as well as terms such as “pro forma” and “scheduled,” and similar expressions that refer to future events or outcomes.

    Forward-looking statements in this release include, without limitation, statements regarding the rescheduled date of the AGM, the anticipated completion and filing of the Company’s audited financial statements and accompanying management’s discussion and analysis, and the timing of shareholder voting.

    Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause actual results, performance, or achievements of the Company to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, delays in the preparation or filing of financial statements; the ability to meet regulatory and stock exchange requirements; market conditions; and other risks relating to the Company’s business and financial condition.

    There can be no assurance that such forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

    The Company disclaims any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information contained herein, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws.

    THE FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS NEWS RELEASE REPRESENTS THE COMPANY’S EXPECTATIONS AS OF THE DATE OF THIS NEWS RELEASE AND, ACCORDINGLY, IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE AFTER SUCH DATE. READERS SHOULD NOT PLACE UNDUE IMPORTANCE ON FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION AND SHOULD NOT RELY UPON THIS INFORMATION AS OF ANY OTHER DATE. WHILE THE COMPANY MAY ELECT TO, IT DOES NOT UNDERTAKE TO UPDATE THIS INFORMATION AT ANY PARTICULAR TIME EXCEPT AS REQUIRED IN ACCORDANCE WITH APPLICABLE LAWS.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Addressing Surging Demand, Vetty Reports Strong Growth, Strategic Wins and Expanded Integrations in 1H 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    AUSTIN, Texas, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Seeing a 22.4 percent increase in revenue year over year, Vetty, the one-stop shop hiring acceleration platform, has continued to build on its momentum in the first half of 2025. On pace to surpass its June goals, the company exceeded monthly targets from January to May, reinforcing Vetty’s value in a rapidly evolving market.

    “2025 is proving to be a defining year for Vetty,” said CEO Jason Putnam. “We’re scaling revenue while transforming our leadership team, operations and partnerships to deliver faster, smarter and more agile solutions to our customers.”

    Market Outlook Drives Demand
    Since January, a degree of caution has dominated workforce decision-making, with employers seeking solutions able to accelerate time-to-hire without compromising compliance or candidate experience. Organizations are looking for cost-effective, risk-averse technologies that can streamline hiring processes by augmenting existing systems. Vetty meets these demands with its easily integrated platform that eliminates manual inefficiencies through high-speed, high-compliance workflows for screening and onboarding.

    In this complex and competitive market, Vetty has differentiated itself through numerous strategic initiatives, including:

    • Team Updates: Vetty has appointed Jason Putnam as CEO and Michelle Meehan as Chief Marketing Officer, with Sumanth Channabasappa in charge of Product and Technology. Jennifer Aichele decided to join the company full-time as Chief Financial Officer after completing a fractional assignment. Gregg Moran has signed on to oversee Partnerships, and Roger Dowie and Katrina Polansky have joined on the sales side. Vikrant Viniak was recently named to the company’s board. These fresh voices have brought considerable expertise to the company, driving significant accomplishments in only a few short months.
    • Deeper Integrations and New Partnerships: In 1H 2025, Vetty established partnerships with Bullhorn and Walton Management, expanded its collaboration with Chattr and started building alliances with key system integrators to strengthen its HR technology ecosystem. At the same time, expanded ATS integrations have enabled faster candidate-to-active workflows, supporting Vetty’s accelerated growth in the enterprise.
    • Relentless Innovation: Along with these integrations, Vetty introduced several key enhancements, notably faster, more customizable health screening orders alongside background checks (a standout capability for the industry); automation to improve turnaround times; enhanced progress monitoring; and improved fraud detection using integrated identity verification offerings, further demonstrating the company’s commitment to compliance and operational excellence.
    • Customer Wins: Vetty signed significant new business relationships across several key verticals, including healthcare and healthcare staffing, traditional staffing and high-volume hiring. Representing the company’s growing footprint and measurable impact are:
      • A major healthcare staffing provider with an optimized onboarding process reduced its time to active positive to under five days.
      • A traditional staffing firm that now manages placements from a single platform can fill roles in under four days.
      • Three elder care, nursing and rehab companies, which collectively manage 100 facilities, have digitized state licensing requirements, transforming a paper-based process into a compliant and automated system.

    Looking Ahead: Forecasting Continued Velocity
    Having achieved substantial milestones in the first half of 2025, Vetty intends to stay on its current course moving into the second half of the year. The company’s plans include continued revenue outperformance, developing additional ATS integrations and partnerships, fostering an enviable company culture and fueling product and customer success. To date, these moves have prompted several enterprise wins and record-high participation in key satisfaction metrics, such as USAT surveys.

    Putnam shared, “Over the last few months, we’ve set a strong foundation for Vetty’s next phase of growth. Moving quickly but thoughtfully, what we’ve created is a testament to what Vetty offers – a modern, proactive and valuable solution that makes it possible to win the hiring game.”

    ABOUT VETTY
    Vetty is a one-stop shop hiring acceleration platform where companies can expeditiously complete their screening, credentialing, hiring and onboarding of prospective candidates. Companies count on Vetty to accelerate the time from offer to active and deliver clearly measurable ROI. Learn more at https://vetty.co.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Royalty Pharma and Revolution Medicines Enter Into Funding Agreements for Up to $2 Billion

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • Up to $1.25 billion ($250 million upfront) of synthetic royalty funding and up to $750 million in secured debt
    • Innovative partnership enables Revolution Medicines to retain control over pipeline development and global commercialization of daraxonrasib
    • Highlights Royalty Pharma’s unique ability to provide capital at scale to help leading companies achieve their strategic goals
    • Daraxonrasib, in Phase 3 development for pancreatic cancer and non-small cell lung cancer, would be the first targeted therapy to inhibit all major forms of RAS, one of the most common drivers of human cancers

    NEW YORK, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Royalty Pharma plc (Nasdaq: RPRX) today announced a $2 billion funding arrangement with Revolution Medicines, consisting of a synthetic royalty of up to $1.25 billion on daraxonrasib and a senior secured loan of up to $750 million. These funds will support Revolution Medicines’ plans for global development and commercialization of daraxonrasib and its pipeline programs for patients with RAS-addicted cancers.

    “We are excited to announce today a groundbreaking partnership that provides Revolution Medicines with up to $2 billion of long-term capital through a customized funding solution that facilitates the expansive development and global commercialization of its leading RAS(ON) inhibitor portfolio,” said Pablo Legorreta, founder and Chief Executive Officer of Royalty Pharma. “This partnership exemplifies a new funding paradigm for highly innovative biotech companies. In contrast to a conventional pharma partnership, this large scale and flexible funding agreement enables Revolution Medicines to retain control of the clinical development of daraxonrasib, as well as the ability to capture significant value creation that would result from the successful clinical development and commercialization of its pipeline.”

    “Today’s announcement represents a major boost to our bold vision on behalf of patients with RAS-addicted cancers,” said Mark A. Goldsmith M.D., Ph.D., Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of Revolution Medicines. “This funding agreement significantly increases the financial resources we can deploy while preserving optionality as we scale our operations to create the industry-leading global targeted medicines franchise for patients with RAS-addicted cancers based on our highly differentiated RAS(ON) inhibitor portfolio.”

    Daraxonrasib, a RAS(ON) multi-selective inhibitor, is a potential practice-changing medicine in Phase 3 development for RAS mutant pancreatic canceri and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). RAS is one of the most commonly mutated genes in human cancer. There are currently no approved targeted therapies that broadly target RAS for these cancers. In the United States, approximately 56,000 patients are diagnosed with RAS-driven pancreatic cancer annually, while approximately 60,000 patients are diagnosed with RAS-driven NSCLC annually. Revolution Medicines expects Phase 3 results for daraxonrasib in pancreatic cancer in 2026 and the Phase 3 NSCLC study is currently enrolling patients.   

    Royalty Terms

    Royalty Pharma will provide up to $1.25 billion in exchange for a synthetic royalty on annual worldwide net sales of daraxonrasib (and zoldonrasib if approved in an overlapping daraxonrasib indication). Details on the terms of the royalty agreement are shown in the table below.

    Royalty terms Tranche 1 Tranche 2 Tranche 3(1) Tranche 4(1) Tranche 5(1) Total
    Amount $250m $250m Up to $250m Up to $250m Up to $250m $1.25 bn
    Timing Immediate Positive data
    (RASolute 302)    		 FDA approval in 2L pancreatic cancer Sales milestone achievement Positive Phase 3 data in 1L pancreatic cancer –
    Draw Required Required Revolution Medicines option Revolution Medicines option Revolution Medicines option –
    Annual sales: Royalty tiers: Royalty tiers: Royalty tiers: Royalty tiers: Royalty tiers: Royalty tiers:
    $0-2 bn
    $2-$4 bn
    $4-$8 bn    		 2.55%(2)
    1.50%
    0.60%    		 2.00%(2)
    1.00%
    0.40%    		 1.50%
    0.80%
    0.40%    		 1.00%
    0.75%
    0.50%    		 0.75%
    0.50%
    0.50%    		 7.80%(2)
    4.55%
    2.40%

    FDA: Food and Drug Administration; 1L: first-line; 2L: second-line
    1 Royalty rates will be adjusted pro-rata depending on draw amount.
    2 The royalty rate on annual sales of $0-2 billion may increase from 2030 to 2041 in the event that sales in the immediate prior year are below an agreed-upon threshold

    Term Loan

    Royalty Pharma will provide a senior secured term loan of up to $750 million at SOFR plus 5.75% (3.5% SOFR floor) which matures six years after the first tranche of $250 million is drawn. The first tranche must be drawn following U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval of daraxonrasib for metastatic pancreatic cancer. The two additional $250 million tranches are available at Revolution Medicines’ option based on the achievement of certain annual net sales milestones for daraxonrasib. Royalty Pharma retains the flexibility to syndicate all or a portion of this loan with other investors.

    Advisors

    Goodwin Procter and Maiwald acted as legal advisors to Royalty Pharma. Latham & Watkins acted as legal advisor and TD Securities acted as financial advisor to Revolution Medicines.

    About Royalty Pharma

    Founded in 1996, Royalty Pharma is the largest buyer of biopharmaceutical royalties and a leading funder of innovation across the biopharmaceutical industry, collaborating with innovators from academic institutions, research hospitals and non-profits through small and mid-cap biotechnology companies to leading global pharmaceutical companies. Royalty Pharma has assembled a portfolio of royalties which entitles it to payments based directly on the top-line sales of many of the industry’s leading therapies. Royalty Pharma funds innovation in the biopharmaceutical industry both directly and indirectly – directly when it partners with companies to co-fund late-stage clinical trials and new product launches in exchange for future royalties, and indirectly when it acquires existing royalties from the original innovators. Royalty Pharma’s current portfolio includes royalties on more than 35 commercial products, including Vertex’s Trikafta, GSK’s Trelegy, Roche’s Evrysdi, Johnson & Johnson’s Tremfya, Biogen’s Tysabri and Spinraza, AbbVie and Johnson & Johnson’s Imbruvica, Astellas and Pfizer’s Xtandi, Novartis’ Promacta, Pfizer’s Nurtec ODT and Gilead’s Trodelvy, and 15 development-stage product candidates.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    The information set forth herein does not purport to be complete or to contain all of the information you may desire. Statements contained herein are made as of the date of this document unless stated otherwise, and neither the delivery of this document at any time, nor any sale of securities, shall under any circumstances create an implication that the information contained herein is correct as of any time after such date or that information will be updated or revised to reflect information that subsequently becomes available or changes occurring after the date hereof. This document contains statements that constitute “forward-looking statements” as that term is defined in the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements that express the company’s opinions, expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, assumptions or projections regarding future events or future results, in contrast with statements that reflect historical facts. Examples include discussion of Royalty Pharma’s strategies, financing plans, growth opportunities, market growth, and plans for capital deployment. In some cases, you can identify such forward-looking statements by terminology such as “may,” “might,” “will,” “should,” “expects,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “target,” “forecast,” “guidance,” “goal,” “predicts,” “project,” “potential” or “continue,” the negative of these terms or similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are based on management’s current beliefs and assumptions and on information currently available to the company. However, these forward-looking statements are not a guarantee of Royalty Pharma’s performance, and you should not place undue reliance on such statements. Forward-looking statements are subject to many risks, uncertainties and other variable circumstances, and other factors. Such risks and uncertainties may cause the statements to be inaccurate and readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such statements. Many of these risks are outside of Royalty Pharma’s control and could cause its actual results to differ materially from those it thought would occur. The forward-looking statements included in this document are made only as of the date hereof. Royalty Pharma does not undertake, and specifically declines, any obligation to update any such statements or to publicly announce the results of any revisions to any such statements to reflect future events or developments, except as required by law. For further information, please reference Royalty Pharma’s reports and documents filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) by visiting EDGAR on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

    Royalty Pharma Investor Relations and Communications

    +1 (212) 883-6637
    ir@royaltypharma.com

    _______________________
    i Pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC)

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Array Technologies Announces Proposed Private Offering of $250 Million of New Convertible Senior Notes

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ALBUQUERQUE, N.M., June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Array Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: ARRY) (the “Company” or “ARRAY”) today announced that, subject to market conditions, it intends to offer $250 million in aggregate principal amount of convertible senior notes due 2031 (the “Notes”) in a private placement (the “Offering”) to persons reasonably believed to be qualified institutional buyers pursuant to Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”). ARRAY also intends to grant the initial purchasers of the Notes an option to purchase, for settlement within a 13-day period from, and including the date on which the Notes are first issued, up to an additional $37.5 million aggregate principal amount of Notes.

    The Notes will be senior, unsecured obligations of ARRAY, and will accrue interest payable semiannually in arrears. ARRAY will settle conversions by paying cash up to the aggregate principal amount of the Notes to be converted and paying or delivering, as the case may be, cash, shares of ARRAY’s common stock or a combination of cash and shares of ARRAY’s common stock, at ARRAY’s election, in respect of the remainder, if any, of ARRAY’s conversion obligation in excess of the aggregate principal amount of the Notes being converted, based on the then applicable conversion rate.

    The interest rate, the initial conversion rate and certain other terms of the Notes will be determined at the time of pricing of the Offering.

    ARRAY intends to use the net proceeds from the Offering (i) to repay $150 million of the outstanding indebtedness under its term loan facility, (ii) to fund the costs of the capped call transactions described below and (iii) the remainder, if any, for general corporate purposes, which may include additional repayments or repurchases of outstanding indebtedness, including any repurchases of the Existing Convertible Notes (as defined below). If the initial purchasers exercise their option to purchase additional Notes, ARRAY expects to use a portion of the net proceeds from the sale of the additional Notes to enter into additional capped call transactions.    

    In connection with the pricing of the Notes, ARRAY expects to enter into privately negotiated capped call transactions with one or more of the initial purchasers of the Notes or their respective affiliates and/or other financial institutions (the “option counterparties”). The capped call transactions will cover, subject to anti-dilution adjustments, the number of shares of ARRAY’s common stock initially underlying the Notes sold in the Offering. The capped call transactions are expected generally to reduce potential dilution to ARRAY’s common stock upon conversion of any Notes and/or offset any cash payments ARRAY is required to make in excess of the principal amount of converted Notes, as the case may be, with such reduction and/or offset subject to a cap.

    ARRAY has been advised that, in connection with establishing their initial hedges of the capped call transactions, the option counterparties or their respective affiliates expect to purchase shares of ARRAY’s common stock and/or enter into various derivative transactions with respect to ARRAY’s common stock concurrently with or shortly after the pricing of the Notes. This activity could increase (or reduce the size of any decrease in) the market price of ARRAY’s common stock or the Notes at that time. In addition, the option counterparties or their respective affiliates may modify their hedge positions by entering into or unwinding various derivatives with respect to ARRAY’s common stock and/or purchasing or selling ARRAY’s common stock or other securities of ARRAY in secondary market transactions following the pricing of the Notes and prior to the maturity of the Notes (and are likely to do so (x) during any observation period related to a conversion of Notes or following any repurchase of Notes in connection with any “fundamental change” (as defined in the indenture for the Notes) and (y) following any other repurchase of Notes if ARRAY elects to unwind a portion of the capped call transactions in connection with such repurchase). This activity could also cause or avoid an increase or decrease in the market price of ARRAY’s common stock or the Notes, which could affect the ability of noteholders to convert the Notes and, to the extent the activity occurs during any observation period related to a conversion of Notes, it could affect the amount and value of the consideration that noteholders will receive upon conversion of the Notes.

    In connection with the pricing of the Notes, ARRAY may enter into one or more separate and individually negotiated transactions with one or more holders of ARRAY’s 1.00% Convertible Senior Notes due 2028 (the “Existing Convertible Notes”) to repurchase for cash a portion of the outstanding Existing Convertible Notes, on terms to be negotiated with each holder, using a portion of the net proceeds from the Offering. No assurance can be given as to how much, if any, of the Existing Convertible Notes will be repurchased or the terms on which they will be repurchased. Holders of any Existing Convertible Notes that are repurchased as described above may enter into or unwind various derivatives with respect to ARRAY’s common stock (including entering into derivatives with one or more of the initial purchasers in the Offering or their respective affiliates) and/or purchase or sell shares of ARRAY’s common stock, which may occur concurrently with or shortly after the pricing of the Notes.

    Neither the Notes nor the shares of ARRAY’s common stock potentially issuable upon conversion of the Notes, if any, have been, or will be, registered under the Securities Act, the securities laws of any other jurisdiction or any state securities laws and, unless so registered, may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act and applicable state laws. The Notes will be offered and sold only to persons reasonably believed to be qualified institutional buyers in the United States pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act. This news release is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, the Notes, nor shall there be any sale of the Notes in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale is unlawful. No assurance can be made that the Offering will be consummated on its proposed terms or at all.

    About Array Technologies, Inc.

    ARRAY Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: ARRY) is a leading global provider of solar tracking technology to utility-scale and distributed generation customers, who construct, develop, and operate solar PV sites. With solutions engineered to withstand the harshest weather conditions, ARRAY’s high-quality solar trackers, software platforms and field services combine to maximize energy production and deliver value to ARRAY’s customers for the entire lifecycle of a project. Founded and headquartered in the United States, ARRAY is rooted in manufacturing and driven by technology – relying on its domestic manufacturing, diversified global supply chain, and customer-centric approach to design, deliver, commission, train, and support solar energy deployment around the world.

    Media Contact:
    Nicole Stewart
    505-589-8257
    nicole.stewart@arraytechinc.com

    Investor Relations Contact:
    ARRAY Technologies, Inc.

    Investor Relations
    investors@arraytechinc.com

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements may be identified by the use of words such as “estimate,” “plan,” “project,” “forecast,” “intend,” “will,” “shall,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “seek,” “target,” “continue,” “could,” “may,” “might,” “possible,” “potential,” “predict” or other similar expressions that predict or indicate future events or trends or that are not statements of historical matters. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the anticipated terms of the Notes, the completion, timing and size of the Offering and capped call transactions, the anticipated effects of entering into the capped call transactions, and the intended use of the net proceeds from the Offering, any Existing Convertible Notes repurchases and the anticipated effects thereof. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties, and important factors (many of which are beyond the Company’s control) that could cause actual results to differ materially from those set forth in the forward looking statements, including risks and uncertainties associated with market conditions, including market interest rates, the trading price and volatility of ARRAY’s common stock, and risks relating to this Offering, the Company’s business and operations and results of financing efforts, including those described in more detail in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2025 and subsequent reports and other documents on file with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. The forward-looking statements included in this press release speak only as of the date of this press release. Except as required by law, the Company does not undertake, and specifically disclaims, any obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of such statements.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Eritrea: Diaspora Nationals Commemorate Martyrs Day


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    Eritrean nationals in Switzerland, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Sweden, the United States, Russian Federation, South Sudan, Austria, and Finland have commemorated Martyrs Day with pride.

    Eritrean communities in the Swiss cities of Geneva, Lausanne, Valais, Bern, Zurich, Chur, St. Gallen, Solothurn, Basel, Zug, Lucerne, Schaffhausen, and Ticino; Abu Dhabi and its environs in the UAE; Gothenburg, Sweden; Ohio, USA; Moscow, Russian Federation; Vienna, Austria; Aweil and Wau, South Sudan; as well as the Finnish cities of Helsinki, Jyvaskyla, Lahti, and Oulu commemorated Martyrs Day with patriotic zeal. Participants pledged to strengthen their engagement in supporting the Martyrs Trust Fund and the families of martyrs.

    Nationals in Aweil, South Sudan, assumed responsibility for supporting 130 families of martyrs and contributed 3,500 US dollars. Nationals in Abu Dhabi and its environs contributed 5,150 Dirhams, while nationals in Finland contributed 2,830 Euros toward augmenting the Martyrs Trust Fund.

    Nationals in Switzerland who had previously taken on the responsibility of supporting families of martyrs reaffirmed their commitment. Nationals in Canton Geneva and Canton Bern contributed 4,184 Swiss francs; Canton Schaffhausen, 1,320 Swiss francs; Canton St. Gallen, 2,920 Swiss francs; Canton Lausanne, 3,360 Swiss francs; Canton Lucerne, 5,000 Swiss francs; Canton Zurich, 5,565 Swiss francs; Canton Valais, 515 Swiss francs; and Canton Aargau, 500 Swiss francs. The Eritrean community in Biel/Bienne contributed 10,000 Swiss francs to the Martyrs Trust Fund.

    Similarly, nationals in Bern contributed 5,000 Swiss francs in support of seven families of martyrs; nationals in Graubünden contributed 3,600 Swiss francs for five families; and nationals in St. Gallen contributed 10,800 Swiss francs in support of 15 families of martyrs.

    Likewise, nationals residing in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, have pledged to assume responsibility for supporting 11 families of martyrs.

    Events in all cities featured candlelight vigils and walkathon programs.

    In related news, 114,000 Nakfa contributed by staff members of the Northern Red Sea Region administration and Foro sub-zone has been distributed to families of martyrs.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI: Stabilization Notice – PRE STAB – Kepler SPA (BIOFARMA)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    24/06/25

    Not for distribution, directly or indirectly, in or into the United States or any jurisdiction in which such distribution would be unlawful.

    KELPER SPA (BIOFARMA)

    Pre-stabilisation Period Announcement

    BNP Paribas (contact: Stanford Hartman telephone: 0207 595 8222 hereby gives notice, as Stabilisation Coordinator, that the Stabilisation Manager(s) named below may stabilise the offer of the following securities in accordance with Commission Delegated Regulation EU/2016/1052 under the Market Abuse Regulation (EU/596/2014).

    The securities:1  
    Issuer: KEPLER SPA (BIOFARMA)
    Guarantor (if any): N/A
    Aggregate nominal amount: TBC
    Description: EUR 4.5NC1
    Offer price: TBC
    Other offer terms:  
    Stabilisation:  
    Stabilisation Manager(s) BNP PARIBAS, ING, JEFFRIES, SMBC, IMI-INTESA SANPAOLO, KCM, NATIXIS, NOMURA
    Stabilisation period expected to start on: 24/06/25
    Stabilisation period expected to end no later than: 08/08/25
    Existence, maximum size and conditions of use of over‑allotment facility: The Stabilisation Manager(s) may over‑allot the securities to the extent permitted in accordance with applicable law.
    Stabilisation trading venue: OTC

    In connection with the offer of the above securities, the Stabilisation Manager(s) may over‑allot the securities or effect transactions with a view to supporting the market price of the securities during the stabilisation period at a level higher than that which might otherwise prevail. However, stabilisation may not necessarily occur and any stabilisation action, if begun, may cease at any time. Any stabilisation action or over‑allotment shall be conducted in accordance with all applicable laws and rules.

    This announcement is for information purposes only and does not constitute an invitation or offer to underwrite, subscribe for or otherwise acquire or dispose of any securities of the Issuer in any jurisdiction.

    This announcement and the offer of the securities to which it relates are only addressed to and directed at persons outside the United Kingdom and persons in the United Kingdom who have professional experience in matters related to investments or who are high net worth persons within Article 12(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 and must not be acted on or relied on by other persons in the United Kingdom.

    In addition, if and to the extent that this announcement is communicated in, or the offer of the securities to which it relates is made in, the UK or any EEA Member State before the publication of a prospectus in relation to the securities which has been approved by the competent authority in the UK or that Member State in accordance with Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 (the “Prospectus  Regulation”) (or which has been approved by a competent authority in another Member State and notified to the competent authority in the UK or that Member State in accordance with the Prospectus Regulation), this announcement and the offer are only addressed to and directed at persons in the UK or that Member State who are qualified investors within the meaning of the Prospectus Regulation (or who are other persons to whom the offer may lawfully be addressed) and must not be acted on or relied on by other persons in the UK or that Member State.

    This announcement is not an offer of securities for sale into the United States. The securities have not been, and will not be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933 and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an exemption from registration. There will be no public offer of securities in the United States. 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Stabilization Notice – PRE STAB – Kepler SPA (BIOFARMA)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    24/06/25

    Not for distribution, directly or indirectly, in or into the United States or any jurisdiction in which such distribution would be unlawful.

    KELPER SPA (BIOFARMA)

    Pre-stabilisation Period Announcement

    BNP Paribas (contact: Stanford Hartman telephone: 0207 595 8222 hereby gives notice, as Stabilisation Coordinator, that the Stabilisation Manager(s) named below may stabilise the offer of the following securities in accordance with Commission Delegated Regulation EU/2016/1052 under the Market Abuse Regulation (EU/596/2014).

    The securities:1  
    Issuer: KEPLER SPA (BIOFARMA)
    Guarantor (if any): N/A
    Aggregate nominal amount: TBC
    Description: EUR 4.5NC1
    Offer price: TBC
    Other offer terms:  
    Stabilisation:  
    Stabilisation Manager(s) BNP PARIBAS, ING, JEFFRIES, SMBC, IMI-INTESA SANPAOLO, KCM, NATIXIS, NOMURA
    Stabilisation period expected to start on: 24/06/25
    Stabilisation period expected to end no later than: 08/08/25
    Existence, maximum size and conditions of use of over‑allotment facility: The Stabilisation Manager(s) may over‑allot the securities to the extent permitted in accordance with applicable law.
    Stabilisation trading venue: OTC

    In connection with the offer of the above securities, the Stabilisation Manager(s) may over‑allot the securities or effect transactions with a view to supporting the market price of the securities during the stabilisation period at a level higher than that which might otherwise prevail. However, stabilisation may not necessarily occur and any stabilisation action, if begun, may cease at any time. Any stabilisation action or over‑allotment shall be conducted in accordance with all applicable laws and rules.

    This announcement is for information purposes only and does not constitute an invitation or offer to underwrite, subscribe for or otherwise acquire or dispose of any securities of the Issuer in any jurisdiction.

    This announcement and the offer of the securities to which it relates are only addressed to and directed at persons outside the United Kingdom and persons in the United Kingdom who have professional experience in matters related to investments or who are high net worth persons within Article 12(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 and must not be acted on or relied on by other persons in the United Kingdom.

    In addition, if and to the extent that this announcement is communicated in, or the offer of the securities to which it relates is made in, the UK or any EEA Member State before the publication of a prospectus in relation to the securities which has been approved by the competent authority in the UK or that Member State in accordance with Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 (the “Prospectus  Regulation”) (or which has been approved by a competent authority in another Member State and notified to the competent authority in the UK or that Member State in accordance with the Prospectus Regulation), this announcement and the offer are only addressed to and directed at persons in the UK or that Member State who are qualified investors within the meaning of the Prospectus Regulation (or who are other persons to whom the offer may lawfully be addressed) and must not be acted on or relied on by other persons in the UK or that Member State.

    This announcement is not an offer of securities for sale into the United States. The securities have not been, and will not be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933 and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an exemption from registration. There will be no public offer of securities in the United States. 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Hut 8 Amends and Expands Bitcoin-Backed Credit Facility with Coinbase to $130 Million

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MIAMI, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hut 8 Corp. (Nasdaq | TSX: HUT) (“Hut 8” or the “Company”), an energy infrastructure platform integrating power, digital infrastructure, and compute at scale to fuel next-generation, energy-intensive use cases such as Bitcoin mining and high-performance computing, today announced that its subsidiary has entered into a Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement with Coinbase Credit, Inc. (“Coinbase”) to amend and expand its Bitcoin-backed credit facility from $65 million to up to $130 million and extend the maturity date to July 16, 2026.

    The amended facility reflects significant improvements in both economic and structural terms, including:

    • Up to $65 million in incremental, non-dilutive capital that positions Hut 8 to deploy capital against near-term opportunities advancing through its growth pipeline.
    • Conversion from a floating-rate structure to a fixed interest rate of 9.0% designed to improve Hut 8’s overall cost of capital as it scales, compared to a stated interest rate ranging from 10.5% to 11.5% between the quarter ended December 31, 2023 and the quarter ended March 31, 2025; and
    • Collateral and borrower protections including an improved limited recourse structure and continued application of a no-rehypothecation covenant on pledged Bitcoin.

    “As we advance a robust pipeline of growth opportunities, we have partnered with Coinbase to strategically double the size of our credit facility and deliver significantly improved terms,” said Asher Genoot, CEO of Hut 8. “The amended structure reflects a shared commitment to disciplined growth and leveraging flexible, non-dilutive capital as we position ourselves to execute on opportunities in our pipeline.”

    “This facility has been an efficient source of capital on our balance sheet, and the amended and restated agreement further strengthens its strategic value,” said Sean Glennan, CFO of Hut 8. “The combination of improved terms and collateral and borrower protections reflects our conviction that risk discipline is essential to building a resilient and efficient capital structure. We are grateful to Coinbase for their continued, constructive partnership in supporting this philosophy.”

    “We’re delighted to deepen our relationship with Hut 8 through this expanded credit facility, which reflects our shared focus on risk-managed growth and capital efficiency,” said Matt Boyd, Head of Institutional Financing at Coinbase. “By delivering non-dilutive financing with enhanced collateral protections, we’re supporting innovators like Hut 8 as they scale responsibly in the digital infrastructure ecosystem.”

    About Hut 8 

    Hut 8 Corp. is an energy infrastructure platform integrating power, digital infrastructure, and compute at scale to fuel next-generation, energy-intensive use cases such as Bitcoin mining and high-performance computing. We take a power-first, innovation-driven approach to developing, commercializing, and operating the critical infrastructure that underpins the breakthrough technologies of today and tomorrow. Our platform spans 1,020 megawatts of energy capacity under management across 15 sites in the United States and Canada: five Bitcoin mining, hosting, and Managed Services sites in Alberta, New York, and Texas, five high performance computing data centers in British Columbia and Ontario, four power generation assets in Ontario, and one non-operational site in Alberta. For more information, visit www.hut8.com and follow us on X 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 statements relating to positioning Hut 8 to deploy capital against near-term opportunities in its growth pipeline, advancing Hut 8’s robust pipeline of growth opportunities, Hut 8 and Coinbase’s shared commitment to disciplined growth and leveraging flexible, non-dilutive capital, Hut 8 scaling responsibly in the digital infrastructure ecosystem, 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.

    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, failure of critical systems; geopolitical, social, economic, and other events and circumstances; competition from current and future competitors; risks related to power requirements; cybersecurity threats and breaches; hazards and operational risks; changes in leasing arrangements; Internet-related disruptions; dependence on key personnel; having a limited operating history; attracting and retaining customers; entering into new offerings or lines of business; price fluctuations and rapidly changing technologies; construction of new data centers, data center expansions, or data center redevelopment; predicting facility requirements; strategic alliances or joint ventures; operating and expanding internationally; failing to grow hashrate; purchasing miners; relying on third-party mining pool service providers; uncertainty in the development and acceptance of the Bitcoin network; Bitcoin halving events; competition from other methods of investing in Bitcoin; concentration of Bitcoin holdings; hedging transactions; potential liquidity constraints; legal, regulatory, governmental, and technological uncertainties; physical risks related to climate change; involvement in legal proceedings; trading volatility; and other risks described from time to time in Company’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. In particular, see the Company’s recent and upcoming annual and quarterly reports and other continuous disclosure documents, which are available under the Company’s EDGAR profile at www.sec.gov and SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

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

    Hut 8 Corp. Public Relations
    Gautier Lemyze-Young
    media@hut8.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Hut 8 Amends and Expands Bitcoin-Backed Credit Facility with Coinbase to $130 Million

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MIAMI, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hut 8 Corp. (Nasdaq | TSX: HUT) (“Hut 8” or the “Company”), an energy infrastructure platform integrating power, digital infrastructure, and compute at scale to fuel next-generation, energy-intensive use cases such as Bitcoin mining and high-performance computing, today announced that its subsidiary has entered into a Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement with Coinbase Credit, Inc. (“Coinbase”) to amend and expand its Bitcoin-backed credit facility from $65 million to up to $130 million and extend the maturity date to July 16, 2026.

    The amended facility reflects significant improvements in both economic and structural terms, including:

    • Up to $65 million in incremental, non-dilutive capital that positions Hut 8 to deploy capital against near-term opportunities advancing through its growth pipeline.
    • Conversion from a floating-rate structure to a fixed interest rate of 9.0% designed to improve Hut 8’s overall cost of capital as it scales, compared to a stated interest rate ranging from 10.5% to 11.5% between the quarter ended December 31, 2023 and the quarter ended March 31, 2025; and
    • Collateral and borrower protections including an improved limited recourse structure and continued application of a no-rehypothecation covenant on pledged Bitcoin.

    “As we advance a robust pipeline of growth opportunities, we have partnered with Coinbase to strategically double the size of our credit facility and deliver significantly improved terms,” said Asher Genoot, CEO of Hut 8. “The amended structure reflects a shared commitment to disciplined growth and leveraging flexible, non-dilutive capital as we position ourselves to execute on opportunities in our pipeline.”

    “This facility has been an efficient source of capital on our balance sheet, and the amended and restated agreement further strengthens its strategic value,” said Sean Glennan, CFO of Hut 8. “The combination of improved terms and collateral and borrower protections reflects our conviction that risk discipline is essential to building a resilient and efficient capital structure. We are grateful to Coinbase for their continued, constructive partnership in supporting this philosophy.”

    “We’re delighted to deepen our relationship with Hut 8 through this expanded credit facility, which reflects our shared focus on risk-managed growth and capital efficiency,” said Matt Boyd, Head of Institutional Financing at Coinbase. “By delivering non-dilutive financing with enhanced collateral protections, we’re supporting innovators like Hut 8 as they scale responsibly in the digital infrastructure ecosystem.”

    About Hut 8 

    Hut 8 Corp. is an energy infrastructure platform integrating power, digital infrastructure, and compute at scale to fuel next-generation, energy-intensive use cases such as Bitcoin mining and high-performance computing. We take a power-first, innovation-driven approach to developing, commercializing, and operating the critical infrastructure that underpins the breakthrough technologies of today and tomorrow. Our platform spans 1,020 megawatts of energy capacity under management across 15 sites in the United States and Canada: five Bitcoin mining, hosting, and Managed Services sites in Alberta, New York, and Texas, five high performance computing data centers in British Columbia and Ontario, four power generation assets in Ontario, and one non-operational site in Alberta. For more information, visit www.hut8.com and follow us on X 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 statements relating to positioning Hut 8 to deploy capital against near-term opportunities in its growth pipeline, advancing Hut 8’s robust pipeline of growth opportunities, Hut 8 and Coinbase’s shared commitment to disciplined growth and leveraging flexible, non-dilutive capital, Hut 8 scaling responsibly in the digital infrastructure ecosystem, 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.

    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, failure of critical systems; geopolitical, social, economic, and other events and circumstances; competition from current and future competitors; risks related to power requirements; cybersecurity threats and breaches; hazards and operational risks; changes in leasing arrangements; Internet-related disruptions; dependence on key personnel; having a limited operating history; attracting and retaining customers; entering into new offerings or lines of business; price fluctuations and rapidly changing technologies; construction of new data centers, data center expansions, or data center redevelopment; predicting facility requirements; strategic alliances or joint ventures; operating and expanding internationally; failing to grow hashrate; purchasing miners; relying on third-party mining pool service providers; uncertainty in the development and acceptance of the Bitcoin network; Bitcoin halving events; competition from other methods of investing in Bitcoin; concentration of Bitcoin holdings; hedging transactions; potential liquidity constraints; legal, regulatory, governmental, and technological uncertainties; physical risks related to climate change; involvement in legal proceedings; trading volatility; and other risks described from time to time in Company’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. In particular, see the Company’s recent and upcoming annual and quarterly reports and other continuous disclosure documents, which are available under the Company’s EDGAR profile at www.sec.gov and SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

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

    Hut 8 Corp. Public Relations
    Gautier Lemyze-Young
    media@hut8.com

    The MIL Network –