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Category: MIL-Submissions

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: U.S. Foreign Aid Freeze Disrupts Lifesaving Health Care, Services for Survivors of Sexual Violence Midst Deadly Conflict in Democratic Republic of the Congo: PHR

    Source: Physicians for Human Rights (PHR)

    February 12, 2025 – The Trump administration’s executive order to freeze U.S. foreign aid for 90 days has halted the supply of lifesaving medical care to populations facing rising conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) including survivors of conflict-related sexual violence, said Physicians for Human Rights (PHR).

    The order was issued as the M23 militia moves deeper into eastern DRC after taking Goma, the largest city and the capital of North Kivu, in January, further destabilizing the region’s dire humanitarian crisis. More than 500,000 people in North and South Kivu have been displaced due to the escalation of violence by armed groups, while health facilities have been subjected to indiscriminate shooting and bombing. There is an acute risk of further violence as M23 advances south in DRC and the United Nations has expressed concern about the significant increase of sexual violence. A rapid assessment of health care facilities in and around Goma conducted by the WHO found 45 cases of rape and gender-based violence reported among the displaced and 21 survivors of multiple-perpetrator rape admitted to medical facilities in recent days. The actual number of cases is likely much higher in light of barriers to reporting.  

    “Health facilities in eastern DRC are struggling as they try to provide health care in unimaginable conditions,” said Payal Shah, JD, PHR director of research, legal, and advocacy. “The United States pulled funding right when besieged communities in DRC needed international support the most. Health workers are risking their lives to address the rise in injuries, deaths, displacements, and cases of sexual violence. Now, they must do so without the vital support of foreign aid from the United States, which accounted for nearly 70 percent of humanitarian funding to DRC last year.”  

    PHR partner medical facilities and humanitarian organizations in the region reported a massive influx of cases of survivors of sexual violence in 2024, including children, who require specialized support. These facilities were already overburdened by mass displacements and the outbreak of infectious diseases including mpox.  

    HEAL Africa, a center for medical, psychosocial, and legal support for survivors of sexual violence in North Kivu, has been forced to halt critical projects related to the care of adult and child survivors of sexual violence, including the treatment of fistulas, specialized psychosocial care, and protection for child survivors. In places like Bulengo, an internally displaced persons camp in North Kivu, services like child-friendly spaces for younger survivors of sexual violence are at risk of being abandoned due to forced closure, attacks on health care facilities, and staffing shortages due to the U.S. aid freeze.  

    The funding freeze has also significantly impacted access to essential health supplies and resources, including blood bank reserves and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) kits for HIV. These kits, which are expensive and can be difficult to procure, are a key tool in post-rape care as they typically include prophylaxis medication and a copy of a medicolegal forensic form used by providers to collect forensic evidence and support justice processes for survivors. Many facilities will run out of supplies within days if financial support does not resume. 

    “For survivors, the lack of health care is compounding the trauma of sexual violence and leading to grave risks of lifelong debilitating health conditions. Urgent and coordinated action is needed on the part of international actors and all parties to the ongoing conflict to respond to this conflict, including to prevent violence and ensure care for survivors of sexual violence,” said Shah. “The U.S. government must use its influence to ensure all parties abide by international humanitarian law and it must end the 90-day freeze on foreign funding support, which is indispensable to the development, security, and facilitation of humanitarian aid in DRC.”

    “All parties to the ongoing conflict in DRC must support safe access to resources via dedicated humanitarian corridors to enable the continued supply of essential medical supplies and services. Each day that goes by without funding for lifesaving health interventions as well as legal and psychosocial support is causing devastating, preventable harm for countless individuals in eastern DRC,” said Shah.

    Physicians for Human Rights (PHR) is a global advocacy organization that uses science and medicine to prevent mass atrocities and severe human rights violations. Learn more here: https://phr.org/about/

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Japan’s Expertise in International Assistance: Leveraging Experiences Gained in Southeast Asia to Aid Ukraine -The Shared Future of Asia and Japan

    Source: Japan Connect

    Diplomacy / InternationalAsia & Pacific

    In 2022, Russia invaded Ukraine. The Russian military has continuously been launching missiles and artillery attacks on civilian facilities, causing great damage to the lives of the Ukrainian people. Japan is offering various assistance through public and private endeavors to rebuild lives, drawing on experiences gained through providing aid to countries in Southeast Asia.

    One such example is a water supply aid project. As part of the government’s gratuitous recovery assistance, Japan is sending mobile water purification systems and ready-to-assemble water supply tanks to Ukraine’s cities where water supply networks were destroyed.

    As part of this initiative, Nihon Genryo Co., Ltd., a manufacturer of water treatment systems headquartered in Kawasaki, Kanagawa Prefecture, delivered four Mobile Siphon Tanks, a mobile water purification system, to Ukraine’s capital Kyiv and the southern port city Odesa. The system, developed by Nihon Genryo, does not require filter replacements, which were necessary in previous water purification systems. The company also invited water supply technicians in Kyiv to Japan and conducted training on water purification technology.

    Nihon Genryo has been deeply involved in Southeast Asia. In 1982, it delivered fully automatic dust scrapers to the Bangkhen Water Treatment Plant in Bangkok, Thailand, to help remove impurities and provide safe, treated water. It also delivered Mobile Siphon Tanks to cities in Laos and Vietnam as part of Japan’s Official Development Assistance (ODA) and is training local staff on how to use them. In Laos, the company carried out emergency water supply operations during flood disasters in 2013 and 2020. In the Philippines, it provided drinking water to regions without access to a water supply by using river water. It also carried out emergency water supply operations at the request of the Japanese government in the wake of disasters such as Super Typhoon Haiyan in 2013 and Super Typhoon Rai in 2021. In this way, the company gained extensive experience assisting the lives and lifestyles of people in Southeast Asia, which is now being leveraged to help Ukraine, halfway across the globe in Europe.

    In addition to water supply assistance, Japan also has international experience in providing aid to people with disabilities. Since Russia’s invasion, over 300,000 Ukrainian troops and civilians have become disabled as a result of injuries. However, medical equipment is growing outdated due to a shortage of funds, and providing assistance is an urgent matter. Japan provided rehabilitation equipment and welfare vehicles to 11 facilities in Kyiv Oblast through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). In December 2024, a commemorative ceremony was held in Kyiv. Ruslan Kravchenko, the governor of Kyiv Oblast, expressed his gratitude, saying, “We thank the Japanese government and its people for their extensive support. This will allow us to greatly improve the conditions for people with disabilities.”

    Japan has also been committed to providing aid to people with disabilities in Southeast Asia. Gratuitous financial assistance was offered to Indonesia, for example, by providing mobile rehabilitation equipment in 1989 and taking part in a project to construct a vocational rehabilitation center for people with disabilities in 1995. In addition to dispatching Japanese specialists and Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers (JOCVs) to countries like Thailand and the Philippines, Japan also invites trainees from various countries to Japan through JICA initiatives to help raise rehabilitation standards for people with disabilities.

    Removing landmines is another urgent issue that must be addressed in Ukraine. It is believed that the Russian military may have planted mines in an area of up to 150,000 square kilometers, which amounts to over a fourth of the country’s land. The Japanese government has been engaged in mine clearance efforts in Cambodia for many years. Drawing on this experience, it is offering comprehensive support to Ukraine by providing resources developed by Japanese companies, such as mine detectors, mine removers and systems using artificial intelligence (AI) to identify areas where mines have been planted, in addition to training on how to prevent injuries and offering aid to victims.

    Japan is also working on assisting Ukrainian soldiers and civilians who survived mines but lost their limbs.

    Instalimb, Inc. is a startup company headquartered in Tokyo that utilizes digital technology to create prosthetic legs. The company uses a special scanner to capture the shape of a patient’s leg and creates a 3D-printed prosthetic based on data designed by a prosthetist using software.
    The CEO of the company, Yutaka Tokushima, said in an interview with the Japanese broadcasting network TBS Television, “One (of the merits) is that we can create prosthetics very quickly. Where it usually takes a month, we can do it in a day (at the quickest) and significantly lower the cost. Another merit is that one professional prosthetist can make many prosthetics.” 
    Prosthetic legs cost around 400,000 yen in Japan, but Tokushima says the company can reduce it to one-tenth of that amount.
    Instalimb has its roots in the Philippines. After working at a computer-related company and as a designer of industrial products, Tokushima joined the JOCV program under JICA and was posted to the Philippines in 2012. 
    Later, with support from JICA and the Philippine government, he established a laboratory equipped with a 3D printer and laser cutter for industrial development. After he learned that many people in the Philippines needed prosthetic legs as a result of diabetes, he took on the challenge of developing high-performance yet affordable prosthetics. Over the course of four years, he developed a technology that specialized in creating prosthetic legs using 3D printing. These prosthetics are now available to people in the Philippines who cannot afford conventional ones.

    As he works on creating prosthetics in Ukraine, Tokushima says, “Many people want to recover and rebuild their lives, but they can’t work because they don’t have access to prosthetic legs. So I want to give them hope, first and foremost. Our current mission is to provide prosthetics to each and every person who needs them as we aim for the ultimate goal of helping all the people of Ukraine regain their bright future.” A Japanese company, born in the Philippines, is now striving to help the wounded people of Ukraine.

    Japan is offering aid to Ukraine in a diverse range of fields including infrastructure, education, agriculture, economy, machinery and culture—and much of this expertise comes from the experience Japan gained in Southeast Asia.

    By Akio Yaita
    Journalist. Graduated from the Faculty of Letters at Keio University. After completing his doctorate at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, he worked as a correspondent for the Sankei Shimbun in Beijing and as Taipei bureau chief. Author or co-author of many books.

    *The stories and materials above are provided by JIJI.com or AFPBBNews. Feel free to feature these stories in your own media.

    About “Japan Connect”
    Bringing you the latest stories about Japan.
    This new service is provided by AFPBB News, which AFP launched in 2007.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Update on December 2024 and January 2025 rental data

    Update on December 2024 and January 2025 rental data

    The national-level stock measure for actual rentals for housing for December 2024 and January 2025 will be included in Selected price indexes: January 2025, which is due out on Friday 14 February.  

    The administrative data used for this measure is provided by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE), which recently upgraded their tenancy bond-lodgment system. The stock measure was not included in last month’s SPI release as time was needed to integrate the new system’s data into the rental price indexes.  

    The completed update does not affect the results for the December 2024 quarter consumers price index (CPI), so no revision is required.

    The release does not include the flow of rental properties measures (national and regional) as we are still working to integrate the new system’s data for these measures. The flow measures, which do not affect the CPI, will be included when we are confident they meet customer expectations.  

    Stats NZ would like to thank MBIE and the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for collaborating on this work and making it possible to release the latest data. We will provide a further update in due course.

    If you have any questions, please contact our Information Centre at info@stats.govt.nz.

    Ends

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    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Pacific – Nauru citizenship program CEO backs Waqa comments to rethink climate financing

    Source: Nauru Economic and Climate Resilience Citizenship Program

    The chief executive of the Nauru Economic and Climate Resilience Citizenship Program has echoed calls by Pacific Islands Forum Secretary General Baron Waqa for private finance to play a greater role in supporting Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

    Edward Clark said SG Waqa’s comments, made at the 2025 OECD Conference on Private Finance for Sustainable Development last week where he pointed out that “Capital flows have reached unprecedented levels, yet far too little is reaching SIDS”, should be a wake-up call for vulnerable nations.

    In his address Mr Waqa said climate-conscious investors should be “willing to look beyond traditional financial metrics.”

    Mr Clark said Pacific Islands and other vulnerable island nations should no longer view themselves as passive recipients of climate funding, but think differently in their approach to climate resilience.

    “Climate vulnerable countries must be viewed as the new incubators for climate innovation.

    “We have both a need and a right to be prosperous in the face of a global climate emergency, and there is an urgent need to ensure we disproportionately benefit from climate innovation.

    He labelled Nauru’s new citizenship program and Niue’s Ocean Wide Trust as examples of “innovative, cost-effective solutions to address these challenges.

    “Our citizenship program is a way of opening Nauru to the world and enabling citizenship in a nation actively working towards climate resilience.

    “It’s for those who want to support Nauru’s sustainable development initiatives.”

    Pointing to Nauru’s ambitious ‘Higher Ground Initiative’ that will see the relocation of 90 per cent of the country’s population to the ‘topside’ of the island, pioneering an entirely new community, Mr Clark said the nation was “the world’s smallest republic with the world’s biggest climate resilience vision.”

    “This is a monumental task and one well beyond the normal financial capability of Nauru.”

    Mr Clark, who has a background in compliance and financial crime investigation, said Nauru’s program adheres to Financial Action Task Force standards and undergoes the strictest and most thorough due diligence procedures.

    “Only individuals of the highest calibre who can participate in shaping Nauru’s future will be accepted.”

    This program is about joining a community dedicated to pioneering solutions for global challenges, and is an example of the bold and transformative action vulnerable nations must take to survive.”

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Germany – Secure supply chains for the Nuremberg Metropolitan Region

    Source: Gebrüder Weiss

    Gebrüder Weiss completes integration of air and sea freight forwarder B+A, acquired in 2023

    Nuremberg / Lauterach, February 12, 2025. Gebrüder Weiss is simplifying global supply chains for industrial and commercial companies in the Nuremberg metropolitan region. At the beginning of the year, the international transport and logistics company completed the integration of the air and sea freight forwarder B+A, which it acquired in 2023. The new Air & Sea department is now integrated into the Nuremberg branch of Gebrüder Weiss, which previously focused primarily on land transport and logistics. Importing and exporting companies in the region will now benefit from a single point of contact for their international transport needs, thereby achieving greater stability for their supply chains.

    “With this step, we have developed Nuremberg into an all-round logistics location in one of the country’s economically strongest metropolitan regions. An export quota of almost 50 percent shows that the goods produced here are in demand worldwide. It was therefore a logical step to combine all national and international transport services – including land transport, logistics solutions, air and sea freight – under one roof,” explains Glenn Gabler, Air & Sea Branch Manager Nuremberg at Gebrüder Weiss. The Nuremberg Metropolitan Region is an urban agglomeration in Bavaria that includes not only Nuremberg, but also cities such as Fürth, Erlangen, Bamberg, Bayreuth and Hof, as well as numerous rural districts in the region.

    In the Air & Sea sector, Gebrüder Weiss in Nuremberg specializes in weekly container crossings by ship from Asia. Groupage freight containers (LCL) loaded with goods for several consignors or consignees are shipped from Asia to Hamburg and then transported by rail to Nuremberg, where they are picked and delivered to regional companies. The same process applies in reverse.

    Gebrüder Weiss has been operating in Nuremberg since 2017, employing a total of around 200 people at the location. The company offers its air and sea freight services at central transhipment points throughout Germany: Hamburg, Bremen, Bremerhaven, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Stuttgart, and Munich.

    Team Nuremberg

    GW Transport

    About Gebrüder Weiss

    Gebrüder Weiss Holding AG, based in Lauterach, Austria, is a globally operative full-service logistics provider with about 8,600 employees at 180 company-owned locations. The company generated revenues of 2.46 billion euros in 2023. Its portfolio encompasses transport and logistics solutions, digital services, and supply chain management. The twin strengths of digital and physical competence enable Gebrüder Weiss to respond swiftly and flexibly to customers’ needs. The family-run organization – with a history going back more than half a millennium – has implemented a wide variety of environmental, economic, and social initiatives. Today, it is also considered a pioneer in sustainable business practices. www.gw-world.com

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Stats NZ information release: Ready-mixed concrete: December 2024 quarter

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    Ready-mixed concrete: December 2024 quarter –12 February 2025 – Ready-mixed concrete statistics provide an indicator of construction activity.

    Key facts

    • In the December 2024 quarter, the actual volume of ready-mixed concrete produced was 967,964 cubic metres, down 6.2 percent compared with the December 2023 quarter.
    • In the year ended December 2024, 3.82 million cubic metres of ready-mixed concrete was produced, down 7.7 percent compared with the year ended December 2023.
    • In seasonally adjusted terms, the volume of ready-mixed concrete fell 4.7 percent in the December 2024 quarter, following a 0.6 percent rise in the September 2024 quarter.

    Files:

     

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Australia – CBA Financial results 1H25

    Source: Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA)

    Key news and analysis of the Commonwealth Bank of Australia’s half year 2025 financial results.

    CommBank CEO Matt Comyn:

    1H25 result

    “During the half, we continued to focus on supporting our customers, investing to protect the community, and providing strength and stability for the broader economy.

    “Every day we lend to more than 200 businesses, help almost 400 households buy a home, process more than 20 million payments, and send customers 18,000 alerts about suspicious account activity.

    We’ve invested more than $450 million to combat fraud and scams, and financial and cyber crime. Our continued investment has reduced customer fraud and scam losses by more than 70 per cent over the past two years.”

    Supporting our customers

    “We know many Australians are continuing to deal with cost-of-living pressures.

    “This half, we maintained our focus on engaging with our customers on a range of support options, and provided more than 65,000 tailored payment arrangements for those most in need of support.

    “We helped more than 3 million customers each month better manage their finances through our digital money management tools.

    “And we’ve kept our promise to keep all of our regional branches open to support communities and jobs in regional Australia.”

    Economic outlook

    “The past four years have been challenging for households.

    “There are some risks around the outlook, however there are reasons for optimism in the Australian economy, with near record low unemployment and real disposable incomes starting to lift.

    “We know many households are looking forward to lower rates.

    “Continued effort is required to get underlying inflation sustainably into the target band.”

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: OPEC Fund provides a €50 million loan to accelerate Türkiye’s green transformation

    Source: OPEC Fund for International Development (the OPEC Fund)

    February 11, 2025: The OPEC Fund for International Development (the OPEC Fund) has signed a €50 million loan agreement with the Industrial Development Bank of Türkiye (TSKB) to support investments in renewable energy, energy efficiency, climate adaptation, climate-related equipment production, and circular economy initiatives. 

    The financing, provided through an on-lending arrangement with the Republic of Türkiye’s Ministry of Treasury and Finance, marks the first collaboration between the OPEC Fund and TSKB.

    OPEC Fund President Abdulhamid Alkhalifa said: “This milestone partnership with TSKB underscores our commitment to advancing climate action and sustainable development in Türkiye. By channeling funding into renewable energy, energy efficiency, and climate-resilient industries, we aim to support Türkiye’s transition to a low-emission economy and its net zero target by 2053, while fostering inclusive and green economic growth.”

    TSKB CEO Murat Bilgiç said: “We are delighted to establish our first loan partnership with the OPEC Fund, which will help diversify our sustainable funding sources and support Türkiye’s green transformation. This secured loan aligns with national climate goals and the 2053 Long-Term Climate Strategy, contributing to sustainable development and climate adaptation efforts. We aim for this resource to finance low-emission and resilient economy projects, bringing significant benefits to our country.”

    The OPEC Fund has been a longstanding partner to Türkiye since 1976, supporting projects in key sectors including energy, infrastructure, agriculture and health.

    About the OPEC Fund

    The OPEC Fund for International Development (the OPEC Fund) is the only globally mandated development institution that provides financing from member countries to non-member countries exclusively. 

    The organization works in cooperation with developing country partners and the international development community to stimulate economic growth and social progress in low- and middle-income countries around the world. 
    The OPEC Fund was established in 1976 with a distinct purpose: to drive development, strengthen communities and empower people.
     Our work is people-centered, focusing on financing projects that meet essential needs, such as food, energy, infrastructure, employment (particularly relating to MSMEs), clean water and sanitation, healthcare and education. 
    To date, the OPEC Fund has committed more than US$29 billion to development projects in over 125 countries with an estimated total project cost of about US$225 billion. The OPEC Fund is rated AA+ (Stable Outlook) by Fitch and S&P. Our vision is a world where sustainable development is a reality for all.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Australia – New book tells the stories of second generation migrants – AMES

    Source: AMES

    A compelling new book tells the stories of second-generation migrant Australians, who share their families’ settlement journeys and their own search for identity.

    Titled ‘At the Heart of Identity’, the book reveals the both inspirational and heart-wrenching stories of migrant families as well as the sense of hope and opportunity that characterises Australia’s migration history.

    Contributors include South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas, whose family hails from Lithuania, and former Socceroo Archie Thompson, who has a New Zealand-born father and mother from Papua New Guinea.

    Also sharing their stories are federal MP Cassandra Fernando, whose parents are from Sri Lanka, and Victorian state MP Lee Tarlamis, who has Greek heritage.

    Artist Saidin Salkic, whose father was victim of the Srebrenica massacre in Bosnia, is also a contributor, along with others from Africa, Kurdistan, Vietnam, Malta, Yugoslavia, Burma, Italy and Ukraine.

    Published today as part of migrant and refugee settlement agency AMES Australia’s annual ‘Heartlands’ cultural project, the book is a reflection of Australia’s long and diverse history as a nation of migrants.

    AMES CEO Cath Scarth said the book was timely at a point in history when polarisation and divisiveness are on the rise across the globe.

    “Stories of settlement in Australia, no matter where you have come from, are things that unite us,” Ms Scarth said.

    “These stories are reflection of how migrants have helped to build Australia and helped to create the successful brand of multiculturalism we enjoy along with the high levels of social cohesion that we have built,” she said.

    One of the contributors is Carmen Capp-Calleya, who came to Australia from Malta with her parents in 1958 – surviving a shipwreck along the way.

    “The tragic incident, the first major shipping disaster since the end of WW11, had an enduring impact on me and my family. It left us with an indelible sense that we were indeed migrants who had crossed the seas to make a new life,” she says in the book.

    Former Socceroo Archie Thompson tells of his trouble childhood.

    “I grew up in country town in NSW and I was pretty much the only dark-skinned kid in town. That made things difficult at times, but I was able to find a community through football,” he says.

    SA Premier Peter Malinauskas’ family came to Australia in 1949 escaping war-torn Europe.

    “When my grandparents got married, they bought a block of land on Trimmer Parade, Seaton, where they built their home and, for many years, operated a fish and chip shop. I distinctly remember as a young boy standing at that fish and chip shop my grandfather built with his own bare hands as he told me about the importance of taking opportunities,” he says.

    Federal MP Cassandra Fernando tells of growing up in a vibrant multicultural community.

    “I loved the diversity in South-East Melbourne, a cultural melting pot of Greeks, Italians, Vietnamese, and more. Here, I learned the true meaning of community as people from

    different backgrounds came together,” she says.

    Victorian MP Lee Tarlamis tells of reconnecting with his heritage.

    “I became determined to reconnect with Greek culture. Embracing both the Greek community and my wife’s Vietnamese culture helped me value diversity and the importance of preserving it,” he says in the book.

    Park Ranger James Brincat, whose parts came from Malta in the 1950s, says racism was part of his childhood.

    “Growing up in a migrant family was challenging due to racism and being unsure of my identity because of the media’s mixed messages. These experiences strengthened me and now guide my work with refugee communities,” he says.

    Architect and artist Maru Jarockyj’s parents fled Ukraine after WWII and settled in the UK. She came to Australia as a young woman.

    “Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine and the subsequent devastating war has sparked some deep latent emotions in me and reignited a sense of patriotism. Ukrainian culture

    has always been important to me, and I’ve been involved in folk music and art throughout my life,” she says.

    ‘At the Heart of Identity’ will go on sale early next year.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Australia – CBA extends commitment to regional branch network until 31 July 2027

    Source: Commonwealth Bank of Australia

    CBA has extended its commitment to regional Australia, with all regional branches to remain open until at least 31 July 2027.

    Our focus is on supporting our customers in regional and remote communities into the future.  

    We’re actively and directly communicating with community leaders across Australia so we can serve and support our regional retail and business customers with their banking needs, as well as help familiarise communities with the full range of banking services available to them.  

    As part of maintaining Australia’s largest banking presence, CBA will this year invest $100 million in upgrading its branches and ATM fleet.

    The extension of the commitment announced in July 2023 ensures CBA continues to offer the largest branch network in Australia and offers reassurance to regional communities.

    Notes to Editor

    Branch locations are defined in line with the Accessibility/Remoteness Index of Australia (ARIA+), which is recognised as a leading indicator of remoteness in Australia. ARIA+ is used by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) for its Australian Statistical Geography Standard (ASGS) Edition 3, and the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) for its annual ADI Points of Presence report. ARIA+ is an objective measure of physical distance of populations to services.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Economy – Global Barometers rise in February after falling in January – KOF

    Source: KOF Economic Institute

    The Global Barometers increase slightly in February, partially recovering the losses of the previous month. The results indicate a possible consolidation of these levels for the indicators, after an upward tendency was indicated at the end of 2024.

    In February, the Coincident Global Barometer increases by 0.9 points to 95.2 points, while the Leading Barometer gains 0.8 points to reach 103.3 points. The rise in the Coincident Barometer is driven by the indicator for the Asia, Pacific & Africa region, and in the Leading Barometer by the indicators for the Asia, Pacific & Africa region and Europe. The Western Hemisphere remains at the highest level among the regions for both temporal horizons.

    “The most significant changes compared to last month are the increases of 0.7 and 0.8 points in the coincident and leading indicators for the Asia-Pacific and African regions, respectively. While the outlook for Europe has also improved (by 0.7 points), that for the Western Hemisphere has declined by the same amount. Nevertheless, only Asia-Pacific and Africa are worse off than a year ago. It will be interesting to see whether regional differences widen in the coming months in the current political environment”, evaluates Jan-Egbert Sturm, Director of KOF Swiss Economic Institute.

    Coincident Barometer – regions and sectors

    The 0.9-point increase in the Coincident Barometer in February results from the positive contribution of 0.7 points from the indicator for the Asia, Pacific & Africa region and 0.1 points from the indicators for Europe and the Western Hemisphere. The latter region maintains an increasing tendency for the fourth consecutive month to record its highest level since March 2022 (103.0 points). With this result, the Western Hemisphere is now more than 10 points above the indicator for the Asia, Pacific & Africa region.

    Among the Coincident sector indicators, only Services is moving in the opposite direction, while Construction, Trade, and Industry drive this month’s increase, while the Economy (aggregated business and consumer evaluations) remains virtually stable.

    Leading Barometer – regions and sectors

    The Leading Global Barometer leads the world economic growth rate cycle by three to six months on average. In February, the Asia, Pacific & Africa region and Europe contribute positively to the aggregate result with 0.8 and 0.7 points, respectively. In contrast, the indicator for the Western Hemisphere contributes negatively with -0.7 points, interrupting a sequence of three consecutive gains. All the regional indicators are now above 100 points, suggesting a moderately positive outlook for world economic growth in the coming months.

    Among the Leading sector indicators, only the indicator for Economy loses ground this month, which is its second consecutive decrease. The stronger growth in the Construction sector stands out in the first two months of 2025, with the indicator recording a high level of optimism for the coming months.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Tech and Business – Valsoft Expands Government and Healthcare Presence with the Acquisition of Softlinx

    Source: Valsoft Corporation

    Montreal, Canada, February 10, 2025 – Valsoft Corporation Inc. (“Valsoft”), a Canadian company specializing in the acquisition and development of vertical market software businesses, is pleased to announce the acquisition of Softlinx, an industry leader providing secure, HIPAA-compliant cloud fax services, integration, and automation solutions.

    This strategic acquisition enables Valsoft to enter the cloud fax and secure communication space, providing efficient and scalable solutions to industries such as healthcare, finance, and government. Softlinx’s cloud-based faxing solutions and APIs integrate seamlessly with enterprise systems, streamlining workflows and ensuring compliance with stringent industry regulations.

    “Joining the Valsoft family represents a pivotal moment for Softlinx,” said Dr. Hikyu Lee, President and CEO of Softlinx. “For over two decades, we’ve been dedicated to providing secure and efficient communication solutions. Valsoft’s resources and expertise will allow us to scale our technology, reach new markets, and continue delivering exceptional value to our customers.”

    “Softlinx has established itself as a trusted leader in secure communication, and we are thrilled to welcome them to Valsoft,” said Gaurav Goyal, President, Corporate Investment Team at Valsoft. “Their deep industry expertise and robust product offerings make them a perfect fit with Valsoft’s vision of acquiring and growing industry-leading businesses. Together, we aim to grow Softlinx’s footprint and build on its reputation for reliability and innovation.”

    This acquisition reinforces Valsoft’s commitment to investing in companies that deliver essential software solutions while fostering long-term growth and development. The Softlinx team will remain in place, continuing to drive innovation and support their customers with the same dedication and expertise. With a strong presence in the U.S. market and a reputation for exceptional customer support, Softlinx is poised for significant growth.

    About Softlinx
    Founded in 1993, Softlinx is a pioneer in secure, cloud-based fax and messaging solutions. Softlinx’s platform provides organizations with reliable, HIPAA-compliant services that integrate with enterprise systems, automate workflows, and enhance operational efficiency. With a focus on healthcare, finance, and government, Softlinx enables organizations to securely exchange critical information and meet rigorous compliance standards. For more information, visit www.softlinx.com.

    About Valsoft
    Valsoft acquires and develops vertical market software companies that deliver mission-critical solutions. A key tenet of Valsoft’s philosophy is to invest in established businesses and foster an entrepreneurial environment that shapes a company into a leader in its respective industry. Unlike private equity and VC firms, Valsoft does not have a predefined investment horizon and looks to buy, hold, and create value through long-term partnerships with existing management and customers. Learn more at www.valsoftcorp.com.

    Valsoft was represented by Valsoft’s internal legal team and by Rich May P.C. Softlinx was legally represented by Nelson Mullins and advised by Mirus Capital Advisors.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: NTT DATA Unveils Global Insights on GenAI Adoption in Banking: Divergent Strategies for Boosting Productivity vs. Cutting Costs

    Source: NTT DATA

    Research from NTT DATA finds that as GenAI adoption rises, new pressures on return of investment are at the forefront of the challenges facing the banking industry.

    TOKYO – BUSINESS WIRE – NTT DATA, a global digital business and IT services leader, has today launched a new global research report uncovering the use of generative AI (GenAI) in the banking sector worldwide. The report, titled “Intelligent banking in the Age of AI,” has found that despite the growing adoption of GenAI technology in the banking industry, banks and financial institutions are split when it comes to outcome-based strategies – only half of banks (50%) see it as a tool for improving productivity and efficiency. Similarly, half (49%) believe it can be used for reducing operational IT spend.

    Transforming Banking Through GenAI

    GenAI is more disruptive than any previous advance in banking technology. It is less a question of if, but when banks embrace this technology, due to its transformative ability to embed intelligence at every layer of the banking ecosystem, from core banking to front-end systems. GenAI is already making waves in the banking industry, with 6 in 10 organizations (58%) already fully embracing its transformative potential, an increase from 2023, when only 45% of organizations had fully embraced GenAI, according to NTT DATA’s research.

    “Generative AI represents a pivotal moment for the banking industry,” said Robb Rasmussen, Head of Global Marketing & Communications, NTT DATA. “While the potential benefits are enormous, the challenges of implementing GenAI are complex and varied, requiring careful navigation and a structured approach. Given the anticipated high spending on GenAI, achieving a return on investment is crucial. Many banks will be expecting GenAI to drive long-term savings by automating IT tasks, improving operational efficiency, and creating competitive advantages, but it’s important to note that achieving meaningful ROI requires a clear strategy, tailored implementation, and robust governance at the same time.”

    Financial constraints increasing pressure on ROI

    ROI has become a top priority for GenAI implementations, yet banking organizations are split in their opinions of which strategies are most important to them. Banks have long struggled with boosting productivity, and GenAI is poised to present a solution to this problem, but only half of banking leaders (50%) see it as a solution to current productivity woes. Cost optimization is another area where banks are split, with just under half (49%) looking to reduce IT budgets accordingly.

    This disparity is highlighted on a global scale too – for example, almost 6 in 10 US banks (59%) are keen to reduce IT budgets and almost half (47%) want to cut operations budgets, while only 4 in 10 banks in Europe (43%) have IT budgets front of mind and just over a third (36%) are concerned with operations costs. Meanwhile productivity is the most important factor for European banks (46%), yet the US and APAC are placing even more emphasis on productivity themselves in comparison.

    Key performance indicators (KPIs) that financial institutions are using or planning to use to evaluate the success of Generative AI initiatives:

    Differing strategies across differing regions

    Strategies for realizing these benefits of GenAI differ vastly among organizations too. While around half of organizations are focusing on collaboration between humans and AI (51%) or a hybrid approach with existing systems (47%), over a quarter (28%) of banks are hoping to fully automate tasks and remove the need for manual input entirely. Fully automating tasks is an area which divides opinions worldwide as well, with a quarter of banks in the UK (25%) and Europe (24%) looking to fully automate the process, while almost a third of banks (32%) in the Americas and 35% of Japanese banks are looking to do the same.

    Robb Rasmussen, Head of Global Marketing & Communications, NTT DATA added: “It is clear that the ability to balance innovation with fiscal responsibility will define success for banks. However, many banks are lacking in maturity when it comes to this technology and are unsure where to start. Partnering with systems integrators can be a good starting point, allowing them to access the latest knowledge while ensuring compliance with industry regulations. By working with specialized providers, banks can ensure that GenAI implementations can deliver the desired ROI, while maintaining robust data protection measures and meeting both internal security standards and regulatory requirements.”

    NTT DATA’s research dives into specific areas of the banking industry, including Payments and Wealth Management, as well as Fraud Prevention. To read the full report, please go to “Intelligent banking in the Age of AI”

    About the Research

    NTT DATA’s survey was carried out on 810 banking leaders, from all global banking markets, and provides a 360-degree perspective on the sector’s journey towards innovation and GenAI adoption. This survey was led by NTT DATA Group’s Global Industry Office, part of the Global Marketing & Communications Headquarters.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Gaza and West Bank – “Inflicting harm and denying care” in the West Bank: MSF report on escalation of attacks and obstructions of healthcare

    Source: Medecins Sans Frontieres/Doctors Without Borders (MSF)

    Jerusalem, 6 February 2025 – Israeli forces and settlers have increased the use of extreme physical violence against Palestinians in the occupied West Bank since the all-out war on Gaza began in October 2023, according to a new report by Medecins Sans Frontieres/Doctors Without Borders (MSF). 

    In total, at least 870 Palestinians have been killed and over 7,100 injured between October 2023 and January 20251. According to the MSF report, “Inflicting harm and denying care”, the escalation of violence in the West Bank has severely hindered access to healthcare and is part of a pattern of systemic oppression by Israel which has been described by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) as amounting to racial segregation and apartheid.

    The report which covers a one-year period from October 2023 and 2024, provides in-depth interviews from 38 MSF patients and personnel, hospital staff paramedics and volunteers supported by MSF who report prolonged and violent Israeli military incursions and stricter movement restrictions, all of which have severely hindered access to essential services, particularly healthcare. The situation has further deteriorated since the ceasefire in Gaza and has exacerbated dire living conditions for many Palestinians who are paying an immense physical and psychological toll.

    “Palestinian patients are dying because they simply cannot reach hospitals,” says Brice de le Vingne, MSF emergency coordinator. “We’re seeing ambulances blocked by Israeli forces at checkpoints while carrying critical patients, medical facilities surrounded and raided during active operations, and healthcare workers subjected to physical violence while trying to save lives.”

    An increased number of attacks on medical personnel and facilities have been reported to MSF teams, including attacks on hospitals, destruction of makeshift medical sites in refugee camps, as well as the harassment, detention, injury, and killing of first responders and medical workers by Israeli forces. Between October 2023 and December 2024, WHO has recorded 694 attacks on healthcare in the West Bank, with hospitals and healthcare structures often besieged by military force. Healthcare workers express a feeling of insecurity as they are frequently harassed, detained, injured and even killed.

    “Israeli forces surrounded the stabilisation point [in Tubas], closing both its entrances, even though it was very clear that this was a medical building. They ordered all the paramedics to exit the stabilisation point. There were around 22 of us paramedics there. Israeli soldiers shot inside and outside the building, damaging our supplies and the stabilisation point,” says a medic from the Palestinian Red Crescent Society, supported by MSF.

    In case of medical emergency, restrictions of movement can have deadly consequences. Access to healthcare in this context has been severely impeded by the obstruction and targeting of ambulance movements and the escalation of violent military raids resulting in injuries, fatalities and the destruction of vital civilian infrastructure, including roads, healthcare, water pipelines and electrical systems, particularly in Tulkarem and Jenin refugee camps. In remote areas and outskirts of cities like Jenin or Nablus, the situation is especially dire, as patients with chronic conditions, such as

    those who need regular dialysis treatment, are forced to stay home due to the untenable obstacles to reaching healthcare.

    On top of the frequent Israeli military incursions, settler violence and the ever-increasing expansion of settlements has left many Palestinians vulnerable to violence and afraid to move across the West Bank. In total, 1,500 attacks by Israeli settlers against Palestinians have been reported by OCHA between October 2023 and 2024.

    As the occupying power, Israel has legal obligations under international law to ensure access to healthcare and protect medical personnel. The healthcare system in the West Bank is under immense strain and forced into a state of perpetual emergency.

    MSF calls Israel to stop the violence against healthcare workers, patients and health facilities and to stop obstructing medical personnel from performing lifesaving duties.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: OPEC Fund arranges US$50 million syndicated loan facility to promote access to finance for SMEs in Paraguay

    Source: OPEC Fund for International Development (the OPEC Fund)

    February 6, 2025: The OPEC Fund for International Development (the OPEC Fund) has arranged a syndicated loan with a US$50 million facility for the benefit of Banco Continental in Paraguay. While the OPEC Fund will contribute US$25 million from its own resources as A-lender, it has also mobilized a US$25 million B-loan from Commercial Bank of Dubai. The OPEC Fund acted as sole Bookrunner, Mandated Lead Arranger and Facility Agent.

    The funding will support Banco Continental’s efforts to expand lending to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and to support the agricultural sector in Paraguay by driving economic growth and bolstering food security through the provision of finance.

    The successful syndication marks a milestone in the OPEC Fund’s mission to mobilize financing for the development needs of partner countries: CBD is one of the largest banks in the UAE, one of the OPEC Fund member countries, and the financing represents its first operation in Paraguay.

    OPEC Fund President Abdulhamid Alkhalifa said: “This syndication reflects the OPEC Fund’s ability to mobilize resources for impactful development and create opportunities for economic growth. Partnering with CBD and Banco Continental we are channeling resources from our member country UAE to initiatives that directly support SMEs and the agricultural sector – key pillars of sustainable growth and food security in Paraguay. This transaction also demonstrates the strength of cross-border collaboration in addressing global development needs.”

    Banco Continental CEO Juan Carlos Carranza said: “We are proud to have successfully completed this transaction with the OPEC Fund and Commercial Bank of Dubai. At Continental, we are leaders in providing financial assistance to the most productive sectors of Paraguay with a strategic vision and social inclusion, meeting the various needs of our clients. Recently, with the investment grade rating, we have strengthened our ability to offer innovative, solid, and competitive solutions, contributing to the economic development of the country and consolidating our market position.”

    Fahad Al Muhairi, General Manager for Institutional Banking at Commercial Bank of Dubai stated: “We are pleased to partner with the OPEC Fund to participate in this facility. At CBD, we are committed to advancing sustainable finance while expanding our global footprint. Our partnership with the OPEC Fund exemplifies our strategy to collaborate with leading international institutions to support economic growth in emerging markets and underscores our commitment to building strategic alliances that drive responsible banking.”

    About the OPEC Fund

    The OPEC Fund for International Development (the OPEC Fund) is the only globally mandated development institution that provides financing from member countries to non-member countries exclusively. The organization works in cooperation with developing country partners and the international development community to stimulate economic growth and social progress in low- and middle-income countries around the world. The OPEC Fund was established in 1976 with a distinct purpose: to drive development, strengthen communities and empower people. Our work is people-centered, focusing on financing projects that meet essential needs, such as food, energy, infrastructure, employment (particularly relating to MSMEs), clean water and sanitation, healthcare and education. To date, the OPEC Fund has committed more than US$29 billion to development projects in over 125 countries with an estimated total project cost of about US$225 billion. The OPEC Fund is rated AA+ (Stable Outlook) by Fitch and S&P. Our vision is a world where sustainable development is a reality for all.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Amnesty International – Trump’s claim that US will take over Gaza and forcibly deport Palestinians is appalling and unlawful

    Source: Amnesty International

    Israel/ OPT: President Trump’s claim that US will take over Gaza and forcibly deport Palestinians appalling and unlawful

    Reacting to President Donald Trump’s comments that the USA will “take over the Gaza Strip”, advocating again for the forcible transfer of around 2 million Palestinians from Gaza to neighbouring countries, Amnesty International’s Secretary General Agnès Callamard said:

    “President Trump’s remarks calling for the forcible transfer of Palestinians from the occupied Gaza Strip must be unequivocally and widely condemned. His language is inflammatory, outrageous and shameful, and his proposal amounts to a flagrant violation of international law.

    “Any plan to forcibly deport Palestinians outside the occupied territory against their will is a war crime, and when committed as part of a widespread or systematic attack on the civilian population, it would constitute a crime against humanity.

    “President Trump’s comments dangerously dehumanizes Palestinians, who for the last 16-months have been victims of Israel’s genocide in Gaza, and for decades have been living under illegal occupation and apartheid. Most of Gaza’s Palestinians are descendants and survivors of the 1948 Nakba, they have already been repeatedly uprooted and dispossessed by Israel and denied their right of return yet have continued to struggle to remain on their lands and defend their human rights.

    “Israel’s genocide in Gaza, including through unlawful killings, injuries and the deliberate infliction of conditions of life that are calculated to bring about their physical destruction,  has been accompanied by an alarming rise in unlawful killings in the occupied West Bank, state-backed settler violence, mass land confiscation and arbitrary arrests, enforced disappearances, torture and other ill-treatment of Palestinians across the Occupied Palestinian Territory and Israel.

    “President Trump repeatedly referenced the destruction, killing and unlivable conditions in Gaza calling it a ‘demolition site’ while seated next to Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, yet he completely failed to mention the Israeli government’s responsibility for causing this devastation. Nor did he acknowledge the US government’s role in providing arms that have repeatedly been used to carry out deadly, unlawful attacks in Gaza.

    “In the face of President Trump’s dangerous threats, it’s more important than ever for the rest of the international community to categorically reject these proposals and expedite diplomatic efforts, in line with international law, to end Israel’s unlawful occupation, dismantle apartheid and uphold human rights for Palestinians and Israelis. History has abundantly demonstrated that sidelining international law for political expediency is a recipe for the perpetuation of violations.

    “Amnesty International also warns against the misuse of desperately needed humanitarian aid and reconstruction as a bargaining chip or as a means to coerce Palestinians in Gaza into leaving. No state is entitled to treat a protected population living under occupation as pawns in a geopolitical chess game.”

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Aviation – Lufthansa Group Airlines use Apple AirTag location feature for baggage processes

    Source: Lufthansa Group

    Now available: Lufthansa Group Airlines use Apple AirTag location feature for baggage processes:

    • Lufthansa Group airlines now offer Apple AirTag integration for enhanced baggage tracking
    • Passengers can securely share AirTag data for faster and more transparent baggage solutions
    • The new feature is part of ongoing digital innovations by Lufthansa Group’s “Digital Hangar”

    New York, 4 February 2025 – Lufthansa Group Airlines are introducing a new service for their passengers effective immediately. Lufthansa, SWISS, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines and Eurowings are integrating the Apple AirTag location feature into their baggage tracing. Now, customers can use the new function to privately and securely share the location of their AirTag or Find My network accessory via the familiar digital channels of the baggage tracing service. The group’s airlines integrate this information into their systems accordingly and can therefore digitally support baggage tracking.

    “Our digital products team, the ‘Digital Hangar’ with its approximately 1,000 experts, offers our customers new digital services, transparent information and support along the entire journey every month,” said Dieter Vranckx, Member of the Executive Board and Chief Commercial Officer of the Lufthansa Group. “The use of Apple AirTag data is one example of many ways in which we are continuously developing the customer journey of all our Group airlines due to innovative digital services.”

    “Thanks to our app and website, passengers can now find solutions quickly and easily in the event of irregularities,” added Oliver Schmitt, Head of the Lufthansa Group Digital Hangar. “In particular, we have been able to achieve significant improvements in the last few months in the area of baggage tracing. The integration of our customers’ AirTag data opens up additional possibilities for us to act even more efficiently and quickly.”

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Africa – Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector Signs the Country Work Program 2025 for Egypt, Unveiling $100 Million Financing Plan

    SOURCE: Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector (ICD)

    Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector Signs the Country Work Program 2025 for Egypt, Unveiling $100 Million Financing Plan. The agreement was officially signed by Engineer Hani Salem Sonbol, Acting CEO of ICD, who highlighted the corporation’s ongoing commitment to Egypt’s economic development

    CAIRO, Egypt, February 5, 2025/ — The Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector (ICD) (www.ICD-ps.org), the private sector arm of the Islamic Development Bank Group (IsDB), has signed it’s the Country Work Program 2025 for Egypt, marking a significant milestone in its strategic partnership with the country.

    The signing ceremony took place in Cairo, in the presence of key government officials, including HE Dr. Rania Al-Mashat, Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation, and Governor of Egypt at the Islamic Development Bank; HE Lieutenant General Engineer Kamel Al-Wazir, Deputy Prime Minister for Industrial Development, Minister of Industry and Transport; and HE Dr. Sherif Farouk, Minister of Supply and Internal Trade.

    The agreement was officially signed by Engineer Hani Salem Sonbol, Acting CEO of ICD, who highlighted the corporation’s ongoing commitment to Egypt’s economic development.

    The 2025 country work program focuses on strengthening the private sector and driving economic growth in Egypt. Key initiatives include direct financing, investments, and financing tools aimed at boosting key sectors such as industry, infrastructure, energy, and agriculture.

    Additionally, the program seeks to enhance financial inclusion by providing lines of finance to Egyptian banks, particularly to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). ICD also plans to raise market awareness about the importance of Islamic finance as a tool for development and to facilitate access to capital markets by forming strategic alliances with international investors.

    One of the key components of the program is ICD’s intention to provide up to $100 million in new financing to support private sector projects in Egypt.

    Engineer Kamel El-Wazir, the Deputy Prime Minister for Industrial Development and Minister of Industry and Transport, said: “The Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector has proven, over the past years, its vital role in supporting the member countries of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) by providing innovative financial solutions and supporting developmental projects that contribute to stimulating economic growth, creating job opportunities, and enhancing the role of the private sector, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises.”

    He added: “We recognize that the private sector plays a pivotal role in the economic development process, and therefore, a large part of this cooperation will focus on empowering entrepreneurs and supporting small and medium-sized industries, which are the cornerstone of any strong economy. Through this program, efforts will be made to provide the necessary financing for these industries, as well as encourage innovation and entrepreneurship. This support will contribute to creating new job opportunities, enhancing sustainable economic growth, and improving competitiveness in regional and international markets.”

    Dr. Rania Al-Mashat, Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation, and Egypt’s Governor at the Islamic Development Bank, praised the successful partnership with the Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector (ICD). She highlighted the continuation of this fruitful partnership through the ICD’s Country Work Program in the Arab Republic of Egypt for 2025, which includes supporting the private sector in various diverse aspects. The program will allocate $100 million to financial institutions to finance small and medium-sized enterprises, as well as providing funding for large private sector companies operating in strategic sectors that are crucial to economic development. This includes particularly the industrial and agricultural sectors, which are key components of the country’s structural reform plan aimed at enhancing their contribution to GDP.

    Eng. Hani Salem Sonbol, Acting CEO of ICD, commented: “We are proud of our long-standing strategic partnership with the Arab Republic of Egypt. In 2025, we aim to deepen this relationship further by supporting the Egyptian government’s development plans. Our focus will be on enhancing the capacity of Egypt’s private sector and financial institutions, especially in supporting SMEs. Additionally, we will leverage our expertise to provide advisory services in the sukuk sector, particularly in assisting Egypt with issuing foreign currency sukuk and attracting new international investments to bolster financial flexibility.”

    He further added, “Our efforts will also include supporting the Arab-African Trade Bridges (AATB) Program, which aims to increase investments in member states, including Egypt.”

    Since its inception, ICD has provided Egypt with a total of $315 million in financing, including support for private sector companies, financial lines for banks, and direct investments in key sectors such as energy, food, and industry. This financing has played a crucial role in boosting economic growth, creating jobs, and fostering the development of Egypt’s private sector.

    About the Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector:
    ICD, a member of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group, is a multilateral financial institution established in 1999. ICD promotes economic development in member countries by financing private sector projects, fostering competition and entrepreneurship, offering advisory services, and encouraging cross-border investments. It holds strong credit ratings, including A2 by Moody’s, A+ by Fitch, and A- by S&P. ICD focuses on Shari’ah-compliant financing for projects like infrastructure and private equity funds, aiming to create jobs and boost exports.

    For more information, visit: www.ICD-ps.org.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Tech – Ivo raises $16M Series A to deliver reliable AI contract review at scale, as it launches Ivo Search Agent

    Source: Ivo

    AI-powered legal assistant cuts contract review time by 75%, as demand surges for intelligent automation in corporate legal departments.

    San Francisco, California – February 6, 2024; Contract negotiation remains the most challenging bottleneck in the contract lifecycle, with legal teams spending hours on manual redlining and revisions while ensuring perfect accuracy. As contract volumes surge, in-house lawyers face mounting pressure to review more agreements than ever before – yet traditional automation tools prioritize speed over accuracy, forcing legal teams to choose between efficiency and reliability. Today, Ivo announces a $16 million Series A funding round to scale its AI-powered contract review solution that has already helped over 150 corporate legal teams negotiate their agreements. Ivo’s customers include companies like Canva, Fonterra, Pipedrive, Weightwatchers, Eventbrite, Blue Cross Blue Shield Kansas City, and several Fortune 500’s.

    The Series A funding round is led by Costanoa Ventures, with participation from Fika Ventures, Uncork Capital, NFDG, Blackbird VC, GD1, and Phase One Ventures. It brings Ivo’s total funding to $22.2 million, following early backing from Daniel Gross and a $4.8 million seed round led by Fika Ventures and Uncork Capital.

    Ivo has developed a breakthrough approach to contract review that sets new standards for accuracy. The platform automatically checks agreements against company requirements, generates specific suggestions for resolving discrepancies, and creates compromise language between conflicting clauses. Unlike competitors that treat legal review as a simple automation problem, Ivo’s sophisticated AI produces naturalistic redlines that mirror the work of experienced attorneys, maintaining consistent terminology and making minimal necessary changes.

    “When I was a corporate lawyer, contract review was amongst the most manual and time-consuming tasks,” says Min-Kyu Jung, CEO and Co-founder of Ivo. Determined to solve this problem himself, Jung left his legal career, taught himself to code, and began building what would become Ivo. After speaking with hundreds of legal professionals and iterating through multiple versions of the product, his team developed a solution that lawyers could use in confidence.

    The impact on legal teams has been immediate and significant. “Ivo reduced our average time to approve counterparty NDAs for signatures from four days to two, while first pass turn improved from an average of 11 hours to 5 minutes,” says Adrie Christiansen, Legal Operations Lead at Quora. Similarly, Geotab’s legal team reports an average savings of 45 minutes per contract review – a 75% efficiency gain that allows their lawyers to focus on strategic work. This improvement comes without sacrificing accuracy, as Ivo’s transparency allows lawyers to understand and validate every suggestion. The platform has proven particularly valuable for high-volume contract review, where maintaining consistency across thousands of agreements is critical. Through extensive customization options and playbook features, legal teams can establish clear guardrails that enable business users to handle initial contract reviews while ensuring proper escalation protocols.

    The timing of Ivo’s expansion is critical. As artificial intelligence emerges as potentially the most transformative technology since the internet, legal teams face mounting pressure to adopt solutions that can scale their capabilities. Yet most AI tools lack the sophistication to handle complex legal analysis, creating more work for lawyers who must double-check every output. With its team of in-house lawyers continually refining and enhancing the platform, Ivo has developed an approach that augments rather than replaces legal judgment – acting as a “powerful force multiplier” for teams handling increasingly large volumes of contracts.

    Today’s launch of Ivo Search Agent marks another milestone in the company’s mission to transform how legal teams work. This new capability revolutionizes contract search and analysis by eliminating the need for manual metadata tagging — a significant pain point in traditional contract lifecycle management systems. Legal teams can now search and generate reports across their entire contract portfolio regardless of where documents are stored, whether in cloud storage solutions like Box and SharePoint or local computers. The system works seamlessly across various data sources, including CLM integrations, requiring minimal implementation while delivering comprehensive insights.

    “Ivo is fundamentally transforming contract review for lawyers and legal teams,” said Amy Cheetham, Partner at Costanoa Ventures. “By leveraging AI to manage the meticulous, painstaking work of contract review, Ivo gives legal teams tools designed by lawyers to work faster with greater accuracy. In a world where legal organizations are constantly under pressure to meet business demands and improve efficiency, the launch of Ivo’s new search tool will allow legal teams to search and generate reports across their entire contract portfolio, significantly reducing their workload and increasing efficiency.”

    “The legal profession is in the early stages of an AI-driven transformation,” adds Min-Kyu Jung. “We’re building Ivo to ensure this change enhances rather than diminishes the crucial role of legal judgment. Our vision is to give every legal team the power to handle enterprise-scale contract volumes while maintaining the highest standards of accuracy and control.”

    About Ivo

    Ivo is on a mission to reduce the time, effort and cost spent on contracts. Ivo was founded out of a belief that contracts are foundational to commerce. The founders saw first-hand how contract review was slowing down mission-critical projects, and decided to do something about it.

    Founded in New Zealand and now headquartered in San Francisco, Ivo powers the world’s most comprehensive and accurate AI Contract Review platform, designed to help legal and business teams accelerate time-to-close and unblock contracts from key business processes.

    By using AI to reduce the time, effort, and cost of negotiating contracts, Ivo makes it easier for businesses to work together. For more information please visit https://www.ivo.ai/ or follow via LinkedIn

    About Costanoa Ventures

    Founded in 2012, Costanoa Ventures partners with technical and product founders as early as company formation, with a focus on apps and infrastructure in data, dev and fintech. Costanoa is a long-term partner to entrepreneurs who want hands-on help in their earliest company stages on all things go-to-market and talent. For more information, please visit https://costanoa.vc/

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Energy Sector – Equinor to commence first tranche of the 2025 share buy-back programme

    Source: Equinor

    05 FEBRUARY 2025 – Equinor will on 6 February 2025 commence the first tranche of up to USD 1.2 billion of the share buy-back programme for 2025, as announced at the Capital Market Update 5 February 2025.

    In this first tranche, shares for up to USD 396 million will be purchased in the market, implying a total first tranche of up to USD 1.2 billion including shares to be redeemed from the Norwegian State. The tranche will end no later than 2 April 2025.

    Equinor announces a share buy-back programme of up to USD 5 billion for 2025, including shares to be redeemed from the Norwegian State, in order to conclude the two-year programme for 2024 – 2025, announced in February 2024. The share buy-back programme for 2025 will be subject to market outlook and balance sheet strength and be structured into tranches where Equinor will buy back shares for a certain value in USD over a defined period. For the first tranche in 2025, Equinor will be entering into a non-discretionary agreement with a third party who will execute repurchases of shares and make its trading decisions independently of the company.

    Commencement of new share buy-back tranches after the first tranche in 2025 will be decided by the board of directors on a quarterly basis in line with the company’s dividend policy, and will be subject to board authorisations for share buy-back from the company’s annual general meeting and agreement with the Norwegian State regarding share buy-back (as further described below).

    The purpose of the share buy-back programme is to reduce the issued share capital of the company. All shares purchased as part of the first tranche for 2025 will thus be cancelled through a capital reduction at the annual general meeting of the company in May 2025.

    Further information about the share buy-back programme and the first tranche:

    The first tranche of the share buy-back programme for 2025 is based on an authorisation granted to the board of directors at the annual general meeting of the company held on 14 May 2024. According to this authorisation, the maximum number of shares to be purchased in the market is 92 million of which 30,843,973 remain available per commencement of the first tranche in 2025 (taken into account buy-backs made under previous tranches). The minimum price that can be paid per share is NOK 50, and the maximum price is NOK 1,000. The authorisation is valid until the earliest of 30 June 2025 and the annual general meeting of the company in 2025.

    An agreement between Equinor and the Norwegian State regulates the State’s participation in the share buy-back: at the annual general meeting of the company in May 2025, the State will, as per proposal by the board of directors, vote for the cancellation of shares purchased in the market pursuant to the board authorisation, and the redemption and cancellation of a proportionate number of its shares in order to maintain its ownership share in the company at 67%. The price to be paid to the State for redemption of the State’s shares shall be the volume-weighted average of the price paid by Equinor for shares purchased in the market plus an interest rate compensation, adjusted for any dividends paid.

    In the first tranche in 2025, shares will be purchased on the Oslo Stock Exchange and possibly other trading venues within the EEA. Transactions will be conducted in accordance with applicable safe harbour conditions, and as further set out in the Norwegian Securities Trading Act of 2007, EU Commission Regulation (EC) No 2016/1052 and the Oslo Stock Exchange’s Guidelines for buy-back programmes and price stabilisation from February 2021.

    The board of directors will propose to the annual general meeting in the company to be held in May 2025, to cancel shares purchased in the market in this first tranche in 2025 and to redeem and cancel a proportionate number of the State’s shares per the agreement with the State. Based on renewal of this agreement, shares purchased under subsequent tranches of the share buy-back programme for 2025 and a proportionate number of the State’s shares will follow a similar process at the annual general meeting of the company in 2026.

    This is information that Equinor is obliged to make public pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation and that is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to Section 5-12 the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Energy Sector – Buy-back of shares to share programmes for employees – Equinor

    Source: Equinor

    05 FEBRUARY 2025 – Equinor ASA has on 5 February 2025 engaged a third party to conduct repurchases of the company’s shares to be used in the share-based incentive plans for employees and management for the period from 14 February 2025 until 15 January 2026.

    Shares acquired under the buy-back programme from 14 February 2025 to 15 May 2025 is based upon the authorization from the annual general meeting on 14 May 2024, registered in the Norwegian register for business enterprises. 

    According to the authorization, the maximum number of shares to be purchased in the market is 12,400,000, the minimum price that can be paid per share is NOK 50, and the maximum price is NOK 1,000. Share buy-back after 16 May 2025 is subject to a new authorization from the annual general meeting in 2025.

    The buy-back programme is time-scheduled, and the share purchases shall take place on specific dates in the period from 14 February 2025 until 15 January 2026 with a determined purchase amount on each date, as set out in the buy-back programme.

    The total purchase amount under the share buy-back programme is NOK 1,992,000,000. The maximum number of shares to be acquired is 19,080,000 shares, of which up to 8,040,000 shares can be acquired in the period from 14 February 2025 to 15 May 2025, and up to 11,040,000 shares can be acquired in the period from 16 May 2025 to 15 January 2026.

    The shares shall be used to meet obligations towards employees who participate in the company’s share-based incentive plans.

    Shares will be purchased on the Oslo Stock Exchange. The share buy-back programme is conducted in accordance with applicable safe harbour conditions, and as further set out in the Norwegian Securities Trading Act of 2007, EU Commission Regulation (EC) No 2016/1052 and the Oslo Stock Exchange’s Guidelines for buy-back programmes and price stabilisation February 2021.

    This is information that Equinor is obliged to make public pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation and subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to Section 5-12 the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Energy Sector – Key information relating to proposed cash dividend for fourth quarter 2024 – Equinor

    Source: Equinor

    05 FEBRUARY 2025 – Key information relating to the proposed cash dividend to be paid by Equinor for fourth quarter 2024.

    Cash dividend amount: 0.37

    Announced currency: USD

    Last day including rights: 14 May 2025

    Ex-date Oslo Børs: 15 May 2025

    Ex-date New York Stock Exchange: 16 May 2025

    Record date: 16 May 2025

    Payment date: 28 May 2025

    Date of approval: the proposed cash dividend is subject to approval by the annual general meeting of Equinor ASA on 14 May 2025.

    Other information: The cash dividend per share in NOK will be communicated 22 May 2025.

    This information is published in accordance with the requirements of the Continuing Obligations and is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to Section 5-12 in the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Energy Sector – Equinor fourth quarter and full year 2024 results

    Source: Equinor

    05 FEBRUARY 2025 – Equinor delivered adjusted operating income* of USD 7.90 billion and USD 2.29 billion after tax in the fourth quarter of 2024. Net operating income was USD 8.74 billion and net income was USD 2.00 billion, leading to adjusted earnings per share* of USD 0.63.

    The fourth quarter and full year results were characterised by:

    Solid financial performance and 21% return on average capital employed* in 2024
    Strong operational performance with stable oil and gas production
    Continued industrial progress and value driven transactions

    Capital distribution

    Proposed fourth quarter cash dividend of USD 0.37 per share
    Announced share buy-back of up to USD 5 billion for 2025
    Expected total capital distribution for 2025 of up to USD 9 billion
    Stronger expected free cash flow*, supporting sustained competitive capital distribution

    Equinor is well positioned for stronger cash flow and growth:

    • Strategy to deliver competitive shareholder returns. Consistent value driven execution – expecting above 15% return on average capital employed* towards 2030
    • Strengthening free cash flow*, expecting USD 23 billion for 2025-2027 by reducing capex and addressing costs
    • Increasing oil and gas production, expecting more than 10% growth from 2024-2027
    • Reducing investments to renewables and low carbon solutions to around USD 5 billion in total after project financing for 2025-2027
    • Lowering expected capacity in renewables to 10-12 gigawatt by 2030

    Anders Opedal, President and CEO of Equinor ASA:

    “Equinor is well positioned for further growth and competitive shareholder returns. We expect to deliver industry-leading return on average capital employed, above 15% all the way to 2030. Our oil and gas production outlook is increased to more than 10% growth from 2024 to 2027. We strengthen our expected free cash flow significantly compared to last year’s outlook. We do this by high-grading the portfolio, reducing the investment outlook for renewables and low carbon solutions and improving cost across our organisation.”

    “Today we announce total capital distribution of up to USD 9 billion for 2025. Supported by stronger free cash flow, we expect to continue to grow the quarterly cash dividend and use share buy backs to ensure a competitive capital distribution also going forward.”

    “We have a consistent growth strategy and our strategic direction remains the same. We continue to reduce emissions from our production and build profitable business in renewables and low carbon solutions towards our net zero ambition in 2050. By adapting to market situation and opportunities, we are set to create shareholder value for decades to come.”

    “In 2024 we delivered solid financial results and high production through strong operational performance. We now expect the 2025 Johan Sverdrup production to be close to the level of the last two years. This shows how we work systematically to improve our producing assets to remain a safe and reliable provider of energy.”

    Strong operational performance

    Equinor had strong operational performance and stable production levels in the fourth quarter. The total equity production was 2,072 mboe per day, down from 2,197 mboe in the same quarter last year.

    On the Norwegian continental shelf (NCS), production levels were sustained by the ramp-up of Breidablikk and the addition of new gas wells. However, the production levels are lower compared to the same period last year, due to natural decline, outage at Sleipner B and planned maintenance. For the full year, Equinor sustained high production level at the NCS, with record high production from the Troll and Johan Sverdrup fields.

    The production at the Johan Sverdrup field is expected to continue to be close to 2023 and 2024 levels in 2025. The recovery rate ambition has been increased from 65% in the plan for development and operations to 75% now, including Johan Sverdrup phase 3. Effective turnarounds and lower unplanned losses contributed to the slight increase in production from the NCS in 2024 compared to 2023.

    Internationally, the upstream business delivered lower production for the fourth quarter compared to the same period in 2023. The divestments in Azerbaijan and Nigeria, natural decline, higher turnaround activities and curtailments in the US contributed to the decline also for the full year. The decline was partially offset by the ramp up of new wells on stream and volumes from the Buzzard field in the UK.

    In the quarter, Equinor completed 10 offshore exploration wells with 4 commercial discoveries. The Himalia and Cappahayden wells were expensed during the quarter.

    The addition of onshore power plants in Brazil and Poland during 2023, along with the start-up of the Mendubim solar projects in 2024, contributed to a 19% increase in renewables power generation in the quarter and a 51% increase for the full year compared to the same periods in 2023.

    Solid financial results in the fourth quarter

    Equinor delivered adjusted operating income* of USD 7.90 billion. and USD 2.29 billion after tax* in the fourth quarter of 2024.

    In the quarter, Equinor recognised net impairments of USD 280 million, primarily related to acquired early phase project rights within onshore markets in renewables.

    Equinor realised a European gas price of USD 13.5 per mmbtu and realised liquids prices were USD 68.5 per bbl in the fourth quarter.

    The Marketing, Midstream and Processing segment delivered solid results through equity and third-party LNG trading. These results were further supported by physical and financial trading of LPG.

    A strong operational performance generated a cash flow from operating activities, before taxes paid and working capital items, of USD 9.81 billion for the fourth quarter. Cash flow from operations after taxes paid* ended at USD 3.91 billion for the fourth quarter, bringing the cash flow from operations after taxes paid* to USD 17.9 billion for the year.

    Equinor paid two NCS tax instalments of a total of USD 5.78 billion in the quarter.

    Organic capital expenditure* was USD 3.37 billion for the quarter, and USD 12.1 billion for the full year. Total capital expenditure was USD 5.41 billion for the fourth quarter and USD 16.7 billion for 2024.

    After taxes, capital distribution to shareholders and investments, net cash flow* ended at negative USD 4.57 billion for the fourth quarter and at negative USD 12.2 billion for the full year. Equinor retains a strong financial position with net debt to capital employed adjusted ratio* at 11.9% by the end of the fourth quarter, compared to negative 2.0% at the end of the third quarter of 2024. The ratio is impacted by the Ørsted acquisitions and working capital effects over year-end to take advantage of commodity market situations.

    Strategic progress

    Equinor continues to develop the portfolio and deliver on its strategy in the quarter.

    On the NCS, Equinor increased ownership to 69.5% in the Halten East Unit in The Norwegian Sea, an important project in a core area with strong profitability and low emissions. A discovery was made near the Fram field in the North Sea. The activity level on the NCS is high with 19 ongoing projects towards 2027.

    The international portfolio will be strengthened by the agreement to establish UK’s largest independent oil and gas company with Shell. The new company is expected to produce over 140,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day in 2025 and play a crucial role in securing UK’s energy supply. Equinor increased its stake in the Northern Marcellus asset in the US and exited the upstream businesses in Azerbaijan and Nigeria.

    A major milestone in the carbon capture and storage portfolio was realised with the final investment decision and financial close on two of UK’s first carbon capture and storage infrastructure projects.

    The acquisition of a 10% stake in Ørsted was completed in the quarter giving Equinor exposure to premium offshore wind assets in operation and a solid project pipeline.

    In 2024 Equinor added proved reserves mainly through estimate revisions, transactions and improved recovery projects. The reserve replacement ratio (RRR) in 2024 was 151%.

    Absolute scope 1+2 GHG emissions for Equinor’s operated production, on a 100% basis, were 11.0 million tonnes CO₂e in 2024. This represents a decrease of 0.60 million tonnes CO₂e compared to last year.

    The twelve-month average serious incident frequency (SIF) for the period was 0.3, a decrease from 2023. The 2024 result represents the lowest frequency on record.

    Competitive capital distribution

    The board of directors proposes to the annual general meeting an ordinary cash dividend of USD 0.37 per share for the fourth quarter 2024, an increase of USD 0.02 per share from the third quarter of 2024, in line with previously announced ambition. The Equinor share will trade ex-dividend on Oslo Børs from and including 15 May and New York Stock Exchange from and including 16 May 2025.

    The interim cash dividends for the first, second and third quarter of 2025, are to be decided by the board of directors on a quarterly basis and in line with the company’s dividend policy, subject to existing and renewed authorisation from the annual general meeting, and are expected to be at the same level as for the fourth quarter of 2024.

    The fourth tranche of the share buy-back programme for 2024 was completed on 14 January 2025 with a total value of USD 1.6 billion. Following this, the total share buy-backs under the share buy-back programme for 2024 amounts to USD 6 billion.

    The board of directors has decided to announce share buy-back for 2025 of up to USD 5 billion in total to conclude the two-year programme for 2024–2025. The 2025 share buy-back programme will be subject to market outlook and balance sheet strength. The first tranche of up to USD 1.2 billion of the 2025 share buy-back programme will commence on 6 February and end no later than 2 April 2025. Commencement of new share buy-back tranches after the first tranche will be decided by the board of directors on a quarterly basis in line with the company’s dividend policy and will be subject to existing and new board authorisations for share buy-back from the company’s annual general meeting and agreement with the Norwegian State regarding share buy-back.

    All share buy-back amounts include shares to be redeemed by the Norwegian state.

    Capital markets update: Firm strategic direction – stronger free cash flow* and growth

    Equinor maintains a firm strategic direction and has taken action to strengthen free cash flow* and returns1. With a profitable project portfolio and strict capital discipline, Equinor expects to deliver high-value production growth in selected markets creating value for shareholders.

    Key messages:

    • Firm strategy – high returns
    • Remaining value driven in the execution. Expecting return on average capital employed* above 15% to 2030
    • Strengthening free cash flow*
    • Expecting strengthened free cash flow* to USD 23 billion for 2025 – 2027 by reducing capex and addressing costs
    • Increasing production growth
    • Expecting above 10% oil and gas production growth driven by developing an attractive project portfolio and value adding transactions, increasing expected 2030 production from 2 to 2.2 million boe per day
    • Building resilient business for the future
    • Lowering investment outlook for renewables and low-carbon solutions to adapt to market conditions and further strengthen value creation for shareholders. Lowering 2030 renewable capacity ambition to 10-12 gigawatt including financial investments, and introducing range for ambition for net carbon intensity reduction. Maintaining strategic direction towards net zero.

    Growth in free cash flow*

    Equinor has significantly increased the free cash flow* outlook by reducing investments and addressing costs. Expected organic capital expenditure* of USD 13 billion for 2025 and on average for the period 2025–2027. After project financing of Empire Wind I, organic capital expenditure* is expected at USD 11 billion for 2025 and on average USD 12.5 billion for 2026–2027.

    Stronger free cash flow provides capacity for Equinor to continue to deliver competitive capital distribution.

    Equinor also strengthens its resilience and can be cash flow neutral after all investments at an oil price around 50 dollars per barrel.

    Oil and gas – delivering long term value

    Equinor expects an oil and gas production growth of above 10% from 2024 to 2027. In 2030 expected production is around 2.2 million boe per day, up from previous expectation of around 2 million. For the NCS, production is expected to maintain at a high level of around 1.2 million boe per day all the way to 2035.

    Equinor will continue to develop existing fields and an attractive project portfolio both on the NCS and internationally. Driving increased recovery and exploration near infrastructure is expected to bring high value volumes with short lead time, low cost and low emissions.

    From the international upstream portfolio, Equinor expects the annual free cash flow* to grow to more than USD 5 billion in 2030.

    A CO2 intensity* around 6 kg per boe is expected by 2030 and the company is on track to deliver on the 2030 ambition of net 50 percent reduction in operated scope 1 and 2 CO2 emissions.

    Renewables and low carbon – adjusting ambitions to realities

    Equinor has high-graded the project portfolios in renewables and low carbon solutions, and reduced cost and early phase spend to improve the value creation for shareholders. The portfolio is expected to deliver more than 10% life-cycle equity returns. For renewables, the ambition for installed capacity is reduced to 10-12 gigawatt by 2030, including the Ørsted and Scatec ownership positions.

    Equinor demonstrates a leading position in carbon capture and storage and has projects with a storage capacity of 2.3 million tonnes CO2 installed or under development. The ambition to store 30-50 million tonnes of CO2 per annum by 2035 is maintained, and Equinor has secured licenses with capacity to store more than 60 million tonnes annually.

    To underline that value creation is at the core of decision making, the ambition to allocate 50% of gross capital expenditures to renewables and low carbon solutions by 2030 is retired.

    Updated Energy transition plan

    The Energy transition plan describes how Equinor creates value, cuts emissions and develops new energy solutions to reach net zero by 2050. The ambition for cutting scope 1 and 2 emissions by 50% within 2030 is upheld.

    The pace of transition depends on frame conditions and market opportunities to create value. Adjusting to the market situation and opportunity set, the range for the net carbon intensity (NCI) ambition will be 15-20% in 2030 and 30-40% in 2035.

    Updated outlook for 2025:

    Organic capex expenditures* are estimated at USD 13 billion for 20252.
    Oil & gas production for 2025 is estimated to grow 4% compared to 2024 level.

    This press release contains Forward Looking Statements. Please see the Forward Looking Statement disclaimer published on our webpages: ( https://www.equinor.com/investors/cmu-2025-forward-looking-statements )

    * For items marked with an asterisk throughout this report, see Use and reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures in the Supplementary disclosures.
    1 All forward looking financial numbers are based on Brent blend 70 USD/bbl, Henry Hub 3.5 USD/MMBtu and European gas price 2025: 13 USD/MMBtu, 2026: 11 USD/MMBtu and thereafter: 9 USD/MMBtu
    2 USD/NOK exchange rate assumption of 11

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Total greenhouse gas emissions fall 0.7 percent in the September 2024 quarter – Stats NZ media and information release: Greenhouse gas emissions (industry and household): September 2024 quarter

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    Total greenhouse gas emissions fall 0.7 percent in the September 2024 quarter – 5 February 2025 – Seasonally adjusted industry and household greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in Aotearoa New Zealand decreased 0.7 percent (136 kilotonnes) in the September 2024 quarter, according to figures released by Stats NZ today.

    “The decrease in emissions this quarter came mainly from manufacturing, with falls in emissions recorded in most other industries,” environment statistics spokesperson Tehseen Islam said.

    Over this quarter, industry emissions (excluding households) decreased by 1.2 percent (204 kilotonnes). By comparison, gross domestic product decreased 1.0 percent in the same period.

    Emissions attributed to households rose 0.3 percent (6 kilotonnes) in the September 2024 quarter.

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    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Europe – Research Highlights: 5K+ Women Reveal Career Progression Barriers In Tech Industry

    Source: Women Go Tech

    Women Go Tech published results from a Google.org and OSCE-backed study on the challenges and disparities facing women at all levels of the tech sector. Over 40 experts and 5,000 women provided insight into how the situation can be improved, mostly through public policy and private development.

    February 5, Vilnius–Lithuania. Women Go Tech, a Lithuanian NGO focused on empowering women in tech, recently released a new study highlighting the challenges women in Central and Eastern Europe face during their career progression in the tech industry, and presenting strategies to empower women in tech.

    The study, “Building the Future Power Hub for Women in Tech,” surveyed 5,475 women across 13 countries, with support from Google.org and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE). The results revealed which countries are most ready to enable women in tech: Bulgaria, Lithuania, Romania, and Latvia. On the other hand, Slovakian, Czech, and Croatian women are experiencing the most barriers to enter the industry.

    “After women shared their experiences, they were analyzed by more than 40 experts, outlining solutions to shift the tech industry landscape to help women succeed faster, in CEE and around the world,” Žydrūnė Vitaitė, co-founder of Women Go Tech, shared.

    In the study, respondents from all CEE countries agreed that ageism, negative stereotypes about women’s abilities, and education bias were all factors holding women back or discouraging them from pursuing careers in tech. Women also reported poor work-life balance and low representation in leadership roles as influencing their career decisions, as well as fewer opportunities to learn about tech compared to men.

    Specifically in Slovakia, Czechia, Croatia, Slovenia, Hungary, Poland, Austria, Estonia, and Latvia, women also believe it is harder for them to succeed in the tech sector than for men. Croatian and Slovenian women are still facing the strongest stereotypes regarding female incapacity to work in the tech sector.

    “Although women in the tech sector today face several challenges, this study also explains where the tech industry can improve and how it can attract more female talent,” noted Žydrūnė. “We need to create a robust environment where women feel supported and empowered not only by the government but also by their peers and other women. A more gender-balanced company will understand and serve the diverse demands of its users and clients, resulting in better products and services. This in turn will help unlock the CEE’s potential to become a global leader in tech innovation.”

    Bulgaria, for instance, boasts one of the highest rates of women in tech and science in all of Europe, and respondents in the WGT study recognized opportunities for upskilling as well as equal access to education and jobs. The country’s tech sector grew by 12% in 2023 and has witnessed steady growth over the past 15 years and is one of Europe’s most dynamic tech hubs.

    According to a 2023 McKinsey study of 1,265 companies in 23 countries, those companies performing in the top quartile of gender representation had a 39% better chance of financial outperformance versus their peers in the bottom quartile. The same held true for diversity on companies’ boards of directors, with a 27% greater likelihood of outperformance. Moreover, the study concluded that diverse representation will foster diverse talent and innovation.

    Governmental input into mentorship programs is needed to close the gap

    Better compensation is the primary motivator for women of any age or experience to enter the tech sector, despite the persistence of a pay gap. Work flexibility and work-life balance are also important incentives. Unfortunately, many women working in tech report a lack of these elements in their jobs.

    “This discrepancy may be discouraging to women’s willingness to mentor and inspire others to join the industry,” said Vitaitė.

    Study revealed that most women surveyed did not have a mentor while progressing through a tech sector.

    Survey also revealed that to change the dynamic, policymakers should invest in mentorship and training programs tailored to women. While this is recommended on a governmental level, businesses should also prioritize mentorship programs for women, embrace diverse hiring practices, and work to increase female representation in leadership positions.

    An issue that remains in the industry is equal pay, alongside the need to promote transparent equal pay policies. The study encourages hybrid and remote work options in tech. Enabling equal career progression for IT professionals is crucial as Europe faces Information and Communication Technology (ICT) skills shortage–only 12 million specialists are projected by 2030 despite EU’s target of 20 million.

    “Building the Future Power Hub for Women in Tech” also included a section focusing on the barriers and biases faced by Ukrainian women in exile who are working to build professional lives within the tech sector.

    About Women Go Tech

    The organization “Women Go Tech” is an NGO navigating women toward careers in tech. Started as a first mentorship program for women in Lithuania in 2017, it has now expanded activities in the CEE. The organization is committed to educating 20,000 women on the use of AI tools and applications. So far, 700+ women have successfully transitioned into the IT industry with the help of the mentorship program and over 19,000 women participated in the introduction course “Discover Tech”. Having positively impacted the lives of hundreds of women and cultivated a new generation of female role models in tech, the NGO has grown from a local project into a movement with significant influence across the region. The organization is a long-term grantee of Google.org.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Unemployment rate at 5.1 percent in the December 2024 quarter – Stats NZ media and information release: Labour market statistics: December 2024 quarter

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    Unemployment rate at 5.1 percent in the December 2024 quarter – 5 February 2025 – Unemployment continued to grow, with the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate reaching 5.1 percent in the December 2024 quarter, according to figures released by Stats NZ today.

    In the December 2024 quarter:

    • the unemployment rate was 5.1 percent
    • the employment rate was 67.4 percent
    • annual wage inflation was 3.3 percent
    • average ordinary time hourly earnings were $42.57.

    Files:

     

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Asia-Pacific region to chart bold path for migration governance

    Source: United Nations – ESCAP

    The second Regional Review of the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration (GCM) in Asia and the Pacific opened today with a call for migration policies that prioritize the needs and rights of migrants while ensuring broad collaboration across governments, communities and key stakeholders.  

    The region, home to over 40 per cent of the world’s international migrants, is witnessing significant shifts driven by demographic changes, rapid digital transformation and the increasing effects of climate change and other crises. Intraregional migration remains predominant, with 70 per cent of migrants moving within the region.

    Much of international migration is propelled by the search for decent work, with women migrants playing a critical yet often undervalued role in sectors such as care and domestic work. Children also make up a significant proportion of migrants in the region, with unique needs for services and protection due to their heightened vulnerability.  

    “Migration, if managed in a well-informed, planned and voluntary manner, with full respect and protection of human rights, can bring benefits to all. Migrants should have their potential fully harnessed to play key roles in enhancing sustainable development in countries of origin and destination,” said Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana, United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) in her opening remarks.

    “With over 40 per cent of the world’s migrants calling Asia and the Pacific home, the region has a unique opportunity to lead by example—expanding regular pathways, protecting lives and ensuring migration benefits all,” said Catalina Devandas, representing IOM Director General Amy Pope in her capacity as Coordinator of the UN Network on Migration.
     
    Expected outcomes and commitments

    Over the next three days, participants will share progress, challenges and good practices in implementing the 23 objectives of the GCM. Discussions will focus on the critical role of migrants in the region’s resilience and sustainable development, particularly in light of lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic.

    “In host countries, migrants bring with them not only the needed manpower, but also skills, expertise and social interactions, that can help accelerate economic and social development. Meanwhile, home countries can enjoy the economic boost from remittances from migrant workers and diaspora,” shared Eksiri Pintaruchi, Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs of Thailand.

    Speaking on behalf of the Stakeholder Action Group, migrant domestic worker and member of the International Domestic Workers Federation Nasrikah highlighted the importance of having segregated data on migration to inform policymakers on the key needs and situations of migrants and their families and take action based on analysis and true stories of unsafe migration.

    Recognizing the importance of addressing the interconnected challenges shaping migration dynamics such as rapid digital transformation, climate change, demographic shifts and economic disparities, several key commitments are expected to emerge from the review including:

    Protecting migrants’ rights and saving lives: Governments are expected to renew their commitments to policies that uphold migrants’ rights, promote gender equality, tackle discrimination and ensure access to health care, education, decent work and social protection for all migrants, including their children.
    Using technology to improve migration systems: Key priorities include reducing remittance transfer costs, promoting digital and financial inclusion, closing gender gaps in financial access, simplifying migration processes and increasing transparency
    Preparing for crises and climate impacts: Governments are expected to recognize the need for migration policies that help migrants and communities better withstand climate change, economic shocks and health emergencies, using reliable, timely and disaggregated data.
    Strengthening regional cooperation: The meeting will highlight cross-border collaboration, stronger partnerships and meaningful engagement with migrants, civil society, women’s rights organizations and the private sector to improve migration governance.

    The outcomes of this meeting will contribute to global discussions at the 2026 International Migration Review Forum. Governments are also expected to reaffirm their commitment to aligning migration governance with the Sustainable Development Goals, recognizing that protecting all migrants and enabling their full contributions to society are essential to achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

    Note to Editor:
    The second Regional Review benefited from insights shared in the Asia-Pacific Migration Report 2024, developed by ESCAP and the Regional United Nations Network on Migration for Asia and the Pacific, as well as extensive stakeholder consultations held in its lead-up.
     
    For more information: https://www.unescap.org/events/2025/second-asia-pacific-regional-review-implementation-global-compact-safe-orderly-and

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: TRUMP’S CHINA IMPORT TARIFFS AND MASSIVE OCEAN FREIGHT RATE INCREASES DUE TO RED SEA CONFLICT IS PERFECT STORM FOR US SHIPPERS

    Source: Xeneta

    Oslo, Norway – 3 February 2025 – A delay in tariffs on Mexico imports does little to ease the pain for US shippers still facing a 10% hike on tariffs from China in addition to massive increases in ocean container freight rates due to conflict in the Red Sea.

    Latest data from Xeneta – the ocean and air freight intelligence platform – shows average spot rates from China stand at USD 4 816 per FEU (40ft container) to the US West Coast and USD 6 264 per FEU in to the US East Coast.

    This is an increase of 196% and 157% respectively since the escalation of conflict in the Red Sea in December 2023 and is in addition to tariffs on all China imports coming into effect on 4 February.

    Peter Sand, Xeneta Chief Analyst, said: “US Shippers are being hit by wave after wave of disruption and spiralling costs to import goods.

    “They have already faced massive increases in ocean container freight costs due to conflict in the Red Sea and now they are hit with a 10% hike in tariffs on imports from China.

    “You struggle to see how a business can absorb these costs without increasing prices for the end consumer. Given more than 40% of total containerized imports into the US come direct from China, that is a lot of businesses and a lot of consumers who will be affected.

    “A delay in tariffs on Mexico is welcome news but it does nothing to ease concerns over the re-igniting of the US-China trade war, which represents risk at a different order of magnitude.”

    Sand added that shippers have very few options available to deal with the tariff threat.

    He said: “When Trump announced tariffs on China back in 2018, there was a period of time in which shippers could rush as many imports as possible and build up stock inventories before they came into effect.

    “This time Trump has imposed tariffs almost immediately so if shippers haven’t taken action by now, it’s already too late. Shippers may well look at shifting supply chains out of China into nations such as India or South East Asia, but this takes time, financial investment and deep understanding of market data and intelligence.

    “The ceasefire between Israel and Hamas raised the prospect of a better year for shippers in 2025 if a large scale return of container ships to the Red Sea sees freight rates fall. Trump’s latest move has dented those hopes because any gains a shipper makes through lower freight rates will be more than offset by a 10% increase in tariffs.

    “If China retaliates and we enter another escalating trade war, an already very bad situation will get even worse for US importers.”

    About Xeneta

    Xeneta is the leading ocean and air freight rate benchmarking and market analytics platform transforming the shipping and logistics industry. Xeneta’s powerful reporting and analytics platform provides liner-shipping stakeholders the data they need to understand current and historical market behavior—reporting live on market average and low/high movements for both short and long-term contracts. Xeneta’s data is comprised of +500 million contracted container and air freight rates and covers over 160,000 global ocean trade routes and over 58,000 airport-airport connections. Xeneta is a privately held company with headquarters in Oslo, Norway and regional offices in New Jersey, US and Hamburg. To learn more, please visit www.xeneta.com

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Home consents up in Otago in 2024, down in all other regions – Stats NZ media and information release: Building consents issued: December 2024

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    Home consents up in Otago in 2024, down in all other regions – 4 February 2025 – There were 33,600 new homes consented in Aotearoa New Zealand in the year ended December 2024, down 9.8 percent compared with the year ended December 2023, according to figures released by Stats NZ today.

    “Otago was the only region with an increase in the number of new homes consented in 2024,” economic indicators spokesperson Michael Heslop said.

    The five regions with the highest number of new homes consented in the year ended December 2024 were:

    • Auckland with 13,939 (down 10 percent compared with the year ended December 2023)
    • Canterbury with 6,544 (down 6.0 percent)
    • Waikato with 2,755 (down 22 percent)
    • Otago with 2,338 (up 19 percent)
    • Wellington with 1,833 (down 24 percent).

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  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Economy – KOF Employment Indicator: outlook remains subdued

    Source: KOF Economic Institute

    The KOF Employment Indicator has fallen slightly in the first quarter of 2025 compared with last quarter. This decline is primarily due to the worsening employment prospects in the retail and manufacturing sectors. Overall, the Swiss labour market is expected to remain subdued this quarter and next.

    In the first quarter of 2025 the KOF Employment Indicator has fallen to 2.6 points, down from 3 points (revised from 3.9 points) in the last quarter of 2024. The indicator is thus continuing to move towards its long-term average of 1.5 points. The analysis conducted for the first quarter of 2025 is based on the responses of around 4,500 firms that were surveyed in January about their employment plans and forecasts. As the KOF Employment Indicator is used to predict the actual employment trend, the current indicator value points to a moderate employment trend on the Swiss labour market over the coming months.

    The modest decline in the employment indicator is attributable to both of its sub-components. On balance, the firms surveyed rate the employment outlook for the next three months as being slightly less positive than it was three months ago (2 points compared with 2.5 points one quarter ago). In addition, their assessment of the employment situation has also deteriorated slightly overall (3.2 points compared with 3.5 points one quarter ago).

    Bleak employment prospects in manufacturing

    The sectors with the most negative employment outlook are wholesale and manufacturing. In manufacturing, for example, a clear majority of firms consider their current staffing levels to be too high on balance and are planning to reduce them over the coming months. The KOF Employment Indicator for this sector has fallen further since last quarter and now stands at minus 12.4 points. It has been in negative territory since mid-2023.

    On balance, most of the firms surveyed in the retail, wholesale and hospitality sectors are also planning to reduce their workforces. In the other sectors, however – particularly in insurance, construction and other services – the number of firms that expect to increase their headcount exceeds those that do not.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –