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Category: Pandemic

  • MIL-OSI Global: How memes spread conspiracy theories – and what to consider before sharing one

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Emily Godwin, Senior Research Associate in Digital Marketing and Virtual Environments, University of Bristol, and PhD Candidate in Conspiracy Theories, University of Bath

    “I am become meme,” declared Elon Musk at the 2025 Conservative Political Action Conference, just after hoisting a chainsaw – a gift from Argentina’s president, Javier Milei – above his head. The tech billionaire and head of President Donald Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency (Doge) was correct. Within hours, images of the moment had spread across social media, spawning countless edits, humorous remixes and sharp commentary.

    This moment was more than just a spectacle. It exemplified how, in a digital age where the battle for attention is paramount, memes are a key part of political conversation. While memes might seem purely entertaining, my research confirms their influence goes deeper, shaping and intensifying political views and attitudes in significant ways.

    The power of memes lies in their ability to distil complex ideas into instantly recognisable forms. They rely on established visual templates, which eliminate the need for lengthy explanations and communicate to the viewer how they should think about the topic of the meme.

    Distracted boyfriend (in which a man looks over his shoulder at an attractive woman to the annoyance of his girlfriend) is a perfect example. It succinctly communicates the universal experience of being tempted by one option while neglecting another – applicable to everything from consumer preferences to political allegiances.

    Distracted boyfriend meme.
    Antonio Guillem/Shutterstock

    However, this simplification can quickly become problematic when memes portray distorted or misleading views of reality.

    Harmful stereotypes, misinformation and conspiracy theories have all found their way into meme format. Memes can transmit dangerous ideas, cloaked in humour that makes them more palatable.

    Conspiracy theories and memes

    Conspiracy theories prove especially adaptable to the meme format. Their narratives rely heavily on simple “us v them” portrayals of enlightened truth-seekers standing up against powerful conspirators and an unaware or passive public.

    My analysis of hundreds of memes from COVID conspiracy communities on Reddit revealed a striking pattern: the same templates appeared repeatedly, reinforcing this simplistic but powerful dichotomy.

    Many memes portrayed conspiracy believers as enlightened truth-seekers. “Lisa Simpson’s Presentation”, showing the comic cartoon character confidently presenting to an audience, was commonly used to share claims that challenged mainstream narratives about science, medicine and the government.

    Other memes portrayed authorities as powerful manipulators. “Daily Struggle/Two Buttons”, showing a character sweating over which of two contradictory buttons to press, was commonly used to suggest that health officials and media outlets deliberately switched between opposing vaccination narratives when convenient.

    Most prevalent were portrayals of an unaware or passive public, with “NPC Wojak” – a grey, expressionless figure named after video game “non-playable characters” – presenting a visual shorthand. Those who followed public health advice and mandates were portrayed as mindless automatons, incapable of critical thinking or independent judgment.

    These kinds of meme did not just reflect existing beliefs – they actively shaped and intensified them. Through repeated exposure, these ideas became normalised and accepted as truth. Memes created a feedback loop where existing suspicions were validated, amplified and spread to others – with real-world effects.

    During the pandemic, conspiracy theories that were shared widely via memes led to real-world action, from vaccine refusal to violent global protests against public health mandates.

    The accessible humour of memes served as an entry point, attracting audiences who might have initially engaged with the content as “just jokes”, but subsequently adopted increasingly extreme perspectives.

    Elon Musk, before ‘becoming meme’.
    Joshua Sukoff/Shutterstock

    Think before sharing

    Given their power to influence political views and attitudes and to spread misinformation, it is important to think critically before sharing a meme. Here are some key pointers:

    1. Think about the hidden message

    Memes often use humour or exaggeration, but consider the underlying message. Is it simplifying a complex issue or distorting reality? Remember that memes can disguise the extremity of viewpoints, making them appear more familiar and acceptable.

    2. Identify who’s behind it

    Consider the source or origin of the meme. Who might benefit from spreading this message? Is it associated with extreme or conspiratorial communities? If you are unsure, a quick check on Know Your Meme or a reverse image search can provide helpful context.

    3. Check for implicit assumptions

    Memes often operate through implicit assumptions about society, expertise and evidence that go unstated. Ask yourself: what core beliefs must someone accept for this meme to make sense? For example, a meme mocking people who “trust the science” might contain the unstated assumption that scientific consensus is merely opinion, rather than evidence-based conclusion.

    4. Think about emotional manipulation

    Memes rely heavily on emotional reactions – often humour, anger, or outrage – to encourage rapid sharing. Before clicking “share”, reflect on whether you’re being manipulated emotionally into spreading an idea you wouldn’t openly support.

    5. Consider potential harm

    Ask yourself if sharing the meme could contribute to harm, whether by reinforcing harmful stereotypes, or spreading misinformation or conspiracy theories. Humour can disguise the impact of these ideas, making them seem acceptable when they aren’t.

    6. Remember that context matters

    A meme may seem funny or insightful on its own – but within wider conversations, it can take on new meanings. Consider how it might be interpreted alongside other messages circulating in similar spaces. Could it be contributing to a pattern of misinformation, division or trivialisation?

    Ultimately, becoming mindful of the memes we share isn’t about losing a sense of humour, it’s about gaining control over the ideas we help circulate. Before you click share, take a second to think – every meme you spread can affect how people see the world.

    Emily Godwin receives funding from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) for her position as a PhD Candidate at the University of Bath.

    – ref. How memes spread conspiracy theories – and what to consider before sharing one – https://theconversation.com/how-memes-spread-conspiracy-theories-and-what-to-consider-before-sharing-one-252780

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    April 2, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Installation of Covid Memorial art trail gets underway

    Source: Scotland – City of Edinburgh

    Work is now underway on the creation of a Covid memorial art trail in the Wardie Bay area of Edinburgh, designed to honour the experiences and resilience of the local community during the pandemic.

    The art trail along McKelvie Parade is intended to arouse curiosity and invite those using the space to pause and be present.

    The project, funded entirely by the Scottish Government and Greenspace Scotland through the Remembering Together initiative, is part of a national effort to reflect the diverse impacts of Covid across Scotland’s 32 local authorities. Across Scotland, local communities have engaged with commissioned artists and creative organisations to develop unique memorials that capture the collective and individual experiences of the pandemic.

    For Edinburgh, Greenspace Scotland has been working in collaboration with artist Skye Loneragan, supported by Artlink and the City of Edinburgh Council. The project has explored experiences of the pandemic, with the goal of highlighting the challenges faced by disabled people, while also celebrating their resilience and potential.

    Culture and Communities Convener Val Walker, said:

    Creating this Covid memorial pathway in Wardie Bay is an important step in acknowledging the shared experiences and challenges faced by our communities during the pandemic. This project provides a meaningful space for reflection for us all, and particularly for individuals with learning disabilities and their carers, who were disproportionately affected. Through collaboration with local artists and community groups, we are ensuring that these voices are not only heard but commemorated. This pathway will stand as a testament to the resilience, compassion, and strength shown by all during those difficult times.

    During Phase 1 of the project Skye, supported by artist Stewart Ennis collaborated with participants from the Maple Project and Lung Ha Theatre and reached out to the wider community through public interventions on the Granton Western Breakwater (Wardie Jetty). Participants were invited to share their memories, thoughts, and feelings about the pandemic and to develop ideas around how we process loss and create spaces for people to come together and reflect.

    The creative process focused on making sure the final art trail design was relevant, inclusive, and reflective of the varied experiences of the community. Concepts that emerged during the engagement phase include themes such as “getting away from it all but having somewhere to come back to,” “the tidal flow of the pandemic,” and “making hard things soft and rough things smooth.”

    The art trail at McKelvie Parade is a combination of several interventions along the route that arouse curiosity and invite those using the space to pause and be present. Art pieces have been created to reflect the tidal flow of the pandemic and include Leith West breakwater stones inscribed with words people told artists they would gift themselves if there were another pandemic (cash, giggles, music). The trail is book-ended by halved stone boulders placed apart and includes a smoothed patch of stone seawall with the invitation ‘Lean on me’, poetry at the entrance to the Bay, a Someone Missing bench co-created with a wheelchair user who described feeling held if there were grooves in the pavement, and a Something Missing Half with 2m distanced Stone seed. The trail includes twin milestone plaques that describe Time as a Feeling, and Distance as a relationship to friends and family.

    Lead artist Skye Loneragan said:

    Processing loss is so important. Covid often kept us (and still keeps many of us), at a distance with those we loved and might have been losing, or parts of ourselves we lost, or something and somewhere we love and might be unable to reach. This project deliberately seeks to work with people whose experiences are often excluded and I am always interested in how we can nurture our collective sanity, together, our interconnected well-being, through the huge diversity of life experiences that make up what is.

    Construction is expected to be complete by Friday 4 April.
     
     

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    April 2, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Compass Diversified Announces Appointment of Matthew Blake as CEO of Arnold Magnetics

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WESTPORT, Conn., April 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Compass Diversified Holdings (NYSE: CODI) (“CODI” or the “Company”), an owner of leading middle market branded consumer and industrial businesses, today announced that Matthew Blake has been named Chief Executive Officer of its subsidiary, Arnold Magnetic Technologies Corporation (“Arnold”), a leading global manufacturer of high-performance electric motors, magnets, and thin metals, effective March 31, 2025. Concurrent with his appointment, Blake will join Arnold’s Board of Directors. After a successful nine-year tenure as CEO, Dan Miller will be concluding his time at Arnold after a planned transition period ending April 30, 2025.

    “On behalf of Compass and Arnold, I want to extend our sincere gratitude to Dan for his dedication and service in building Arnold into the industry leader it is today,” said Elias Sabo, CEO of CODI. “Under his leadership, Arnold has strengthened its position as a leading solutions provider, successfully navigated the COVID-19 pandemic and oversaw the company’s recent plant relocation. We wish him all the best. I also want to welcome Matt to both Arnold and Compass Diversified. With leadership experience spanning multiple facets of industrial manufacturing, I believe he is the ideal choice to lead Arnold in its next phase of growth.”

    Blake brings broad global operations experience across a range of industrial end-markets. He has a track record of driving growth, operational excellence and strategic execution. Most recently, he was the Chief Operations Officer at DwyerOmega, a manufacturer and global provider of precision measurement solutions. Prior to DwyerOmega, he held various leadership roles at Alpha Packaging, Cleaver-Brooks, and ESAB Welding & Cutting Products. Blake holds a Master of Science in Engineering and Global Operations Management from Clarkson University, as well as an MBA from Webster University.

    Ryan Thorp, Chairman of Arnold’s Board of Directors added: “We are extremely grateful for Dan’s stewardship of Arnold in continuing to grow and diversify the business and position it for continued success. I’d also like to welcome Matt to Arnold. Matt possesses a wealth of industrial experience and I am sure he will build on Arnold’s impressive performance.”

    Dan Miller added: “It has been an honor to lead Arnold and work alongside such a talented and committed team. I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together and wish the company continued success under Matt’s leadership.”

    “I am excited at the privilege of leading the exceptional team at Arnold and building upon its strong foundation,” said Matthew Blake, incoming CEO of Arnold. “I look forward to driving continued success and creating value for our customers and shareholders.”

    About Compass Diversified (“CODI”)

    Since its IPO in 2006, CODI has consistently executed its strategy of owning and managing a diverse set of highly defensible, middle-market businesses across the branded consumer, industrial, healthcare, and critical outsourced services sectors. The Company leverages its permanent capital base, long-term disciplined approach, and actionable expertise to maintain controlling ownership interests in each of its subsidiaries, maximizing its ability to impact long-term cash flow generation and value creation. The Company provides both debt and equity capital for its subsidiaries, contributing to their financial and operating flexibility. CODI utilizes the cash flows generated by its subsidiaries to invest in the long-term growth of the Company and has consistently generated strong returns through its culture of transparency, alignment and accountability. For more information, please visit compassdiversified.com.

    About Arnold Magnetic Technologies

    Based in Rochester, NY, Arnold serves a variety of markets including aerospace and defense, general industrial, motorsport/automotive, oil and gas, medical, energy, reprographics and advertising specialties. Over the course of more than 125 years, Arnold has successfully evolved and adapted its products, technologies, and manufacturing presence to meet the demands of current and emerging markets. Arnold produces high performance permanent magnets (PMAG), turnkey electric motors (“Ramco”), precision foil products (Precision Thin Metals or “PTM”), and flexible magnets (Flexmag™) that are mission critical in motors, generators, sensors and other systems and components. Arnold has expanded globally and built strong relationships with its customers worldwide.

    Forward Looking Statements

    This press release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, including statements with regard to the expectations related to the future performance of Arnold and CODI. Words such as “believes,” “expects,” “will,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “continue,” “projects,” “potential,” “assuming,” and “future” or similar expressions, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to the inherent uncertainties in predicting future results and conditions, some of which are not currently known to CODI. In addition to factors previously disclosed in CODI’s reports filed with the SEC, the following factors, among others, could cause actual results to differ materially from forward-looking statements: changes in the economy, financial markets and political environment; risks associated with possible disruption in CODI’s operations or the economy generally due to terrorism, natural disasters, social, civil and political unrest or the COVID-19 pandemic; future changes in laws or regulations (including the interpretation of these laws and regulations by regulatory authorities); and other considerations that may be disclosed from time to time in CODI’s publicly disseminated documents and filings. Further information regarding CODI and its subsidiaries and factors which could affect the forward-looking statements contained herein can be found in CODI’s annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Except as required by law, CODI undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Investor Relations

    Compass Diversified
    irinquiry@compassdiversified.com

    Gateway Group
    Cody Slach
    949.574.3860
    CODI@gateway-grp.com

    Media Relations

    Compass Diversified
    mediainquiry@compassdiversified.com

    The IGB Group
    Leon Berman
    212.477.8438
    lberman@igbir.com

    The MIL Network –

    April 2, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Global: GOP lawmakers eye SNAP cuts, which would scale back benefits that help low-income people buy food at a time of high food prices

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Tracy Roof, Associate Professor of Political Science, University of Richmond

    A shopper who gets SNAP benefits shops for groceries at a supermarket in Bellflower, Calif., on Feb. 13, 2023. AP Photo/Allison Dinner

    Congress may soon consider whether to cut spending on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, the main way the government helps low-income Americans put food on the table. The Conversation U.S. asked Tracy Roof, a political scientist who has researched the history of government nutrition programs, to explain what’s going on and why the effort to reduce spending on SNAP benefits, which can be used to purchase groceries, could falter.

    Why does it look like the federal government may cut SNAP spending?

    Conservative critics of SNAP believe that the U.S. spends too much on the program, which cost the federal government US$100 billion in the 2024 fiscal year.

    Federal spending on SNAP, however, has been falling since it peaked at $119 billion in 2022, before extra pandemic-related benefits ended.

    Some Republican lawmakers are calling for new changes that would cut spending on the program.

    Is there a SNAP budget?

    No.

    Today, SNAP helps nearly 42 million people put food on the table, including 1 in 5 children. Americans can usually qualify for SNAP benefits if their income is under 130% of the federal poverty line. In 2025, that would be $41,795 for a family of four and they have limited savings. Some eligibility guidelines can vary by state.

    The rules are complex. Most adults under the age of 60 are subject to work requirements if they are “able-bodied” and not caring for a child or incapacitated adult. If adults between the ages of 18 and 54 don’t log at least 20 hours of work or another approved activity, their benefits can be cut off. Immigrants without authorization to reside in the U.S. aren’t eligible for SNAP.

    Despite those restrictions on who can get SNAP benefits, there is no set limit to what the federal government can spend on the program. As more people become eligible due to their low incomes and therefore obtain benefits during economic downturns, this spending automatically increases. When the economy improves, it usually declines.

    States administer the program under federal government guidelines. The federal government covers the full cost of benefits low-income people receive through the program, but the states cover roughly half of the administrative costs.

    How can the federal government try to cut SNAP spending?

    There are two main paths to program cuts.

    One is through the farm bill, a legislative package Congress typically renews every four or five years that sets policies for SNAP and programs that support farmers’ incomes. The most recent farm bill expired in 2023. Congress has passed multiple one-year extensions on the measure because lawmakers have been unable to pass a new one.

    The latest extension will expire on Sept. 30, 2025.

    The other option is through the so-called budget reconciliation process underway in Congress. Right now, the primary Republican plan calls for extending $4.5 trillion in tax cuts passed in the first Trump administration and making up to $2 trillion in spending cuts over the next decade.

    The House took the first step in this process by narrowly passing a budget blueprint on Feb. 25. This plan requires the House Agriculture Committee to cut $230 billion in spending over 10 years. While it does not force the committee to cut SNAP specifically, the program accounts for $1 trillion of the $1.3 trillion spent over a decade that the committee oversees – leaving few alternatives.

    What kinds of changes might cut costs?

    Most Republicans appear to favor changing how benefits are calculated and imposing stricter work requirements.

    Today, the value of SNAP benefits that participants in the program can get are calculated based on the “thrifty food plan,” a blueprint for a low-cost, nutritionally adequate diet. A family of four, for example, can get benefits of up to $939 a month if they have no income.

    The Biden administration updated that plan in 2021 in a way that increased monthly SNAP benefits by 23%, not counting the short-term pandemic adjustments to the program. Republican lawmakers want to prevent future changes to the thrifty food plan that might again sharply increase benefits.

    Another proposal would roll back the 2021 change in the thrifty food plan. This would cut current benefits and save $274 billion over a decade. One hitch is that House Agriculture Committee Chair G.T. Thompson has promised no cuts to monthly SNAP benefits.

    Many Republicans would like to stiffen the work requirements by requiring work of recipients who are up to age 65 or are the parents of children who are more than six years old. They also could limit the ability of states to make exceptions in places that don’t have enough jobs.

    Other options include limiting states’ flexibility to offer benefits to people with incomes that are a little higher than 130% of the federal poverty level, capping the monthly benefit for larger households to the amount available to a family of six, and shifting more of the program’s costs to the states.

    Other proposals would crack down on fraud and benefit overpayments. Those steps would be likely to achieve a tiny fraction of the spending reductions the GOP seeks.

    How popular do you think these changes would be?

    The food insecurity rate, which reflects the number of people who worry about getting enough to eat or who report skipping meals or buying less nutritious food because of costs, has been high in recent years. Polls show most Americans support increasing SNAP benefits, not cutting them.

    Angry constituents have recently turned out to protest potential benefit cuts to programs such as Medicaid and SNAP at town hall meetings held by members of Congress.

    Food prices are climbing, and there are growing concerns that a recession could be around the corner. As in earlier downturns, that would probably mean that more people would be eligible for SNAP benefits.

    Food banks, already struggling to meet demand and facing federal spending cuts, have warned they will not be able to fill gaps caused by reduced SNAP spending or new limits on benefits.

    What are some of the obstacles in the way of huge cuts?

    Getting the House and the Senate to agree on a budget bill that curbs SNAP spending will be very tricky, to say the least.

    Republicans have a very small majority in the House and they would need almost every vote. There are seven House Republicans from areas where over 20% of all residents get SNAP benefits, making it hard for them to vote for changes that would reduce or restrict the program’s scale.

    Other House Republicans, especially those expressing concerns about the national debt, are likely to insist that this spending be cut. It is unclear who will win this tug-of-war.

    There’s another complication. If substantial SNAP cuts are made in the current budget process, it could make reaching a compromise on a new farm bill even harder than it’s been in recent years. And while the budget can be passed without any votes from Democrats in Congress, the farm bill will require some bipartisan support.

    Tracy Roof has previously received funding from Virginia Humanities and several foundations associated with presidential archives to study the history of the food stamp program.

    – ref. GOP lawmakers eye SNAP cuts, which would scale back benefits that help low-income people buy food at a time of high food prices – https://theconversation.com/gop-lawmakers-eye-snap-cuts-which-would-scale-back-benefits-that-help-low-income-people-buy-food-at-a-time-of-high-food-prices-208556

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    April 2, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Jay Bhattacharya Begins Tenure as 18th Director of the National Institutes of Health

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 2

    News Release
    Tuesday, April 1, 2025

    Jayanta “Jay” Bhattacharya, M.D., Ph.D., took office today as the 18th Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). President Trump nominated Dr. Bhattacharya for the position on Nov. 26, 2024, and the U.S. Senate confirmed him on March 25, 2025.
    As Director, Dr. Bhattacharya will oversee the nation’s medical research agency. Dr. Bhattacharya will play an instrumental role in shaping the agency’s activities and outlook and ensuring they align with the President’s Make America Healthy Again Commission.
    “Under Dr. Bhattacharya’s leadership, NIH will restore its commitment to gold-standard science,” said HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. “I’m excited to work with Dr. Bhattacharya to ensure NIH research aligns with our Administration’s priorities — especially tackling the chronic disease epidemic and helping to Make America Healthy Again.”
    “Chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, diabetes and obesity continue to cause poor health outcomes in every community across the United States. Novel biomedical discoveries that enhance health and lengthen life are more vital than ever to our country’s future,” said Dr. Bhattacharya. “As NIH Director, I will build on the agency’s long and illustrious history of supporting breakthroughs in biology and medicine by fostering gold-standard research and innovation to address the chronic disease crisis.”
    A renowned doctor, researcher and health economist, Dr. Bhattacharya held a tenured professorship in the medical school at Stanford University in California. Dr. Bhattacharya’s research has focused on population aging and chronic disease, particularly on the health and well-being of vulnerable populations. During the pandemic, Dr. Bhattacharya coauthored the Great Barrington Declaration, which called for opening schools and lifting lockdowns while better protecting older populations who were most vulnerable to the disease. 
    Encouraging different perspectives will be central to Dr. Bhattacharya’s approach to leading NIH as part of his larger mission to restore public trust in science. Alongside Secretary Kennedy, he will champion innovative, cutting-edge research that fuels near-term solutions for patients while balancing investments in basic science.
    Dr. Bhattacharya earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in economics from Stanford University. He then completed medical school and earned a Ph.D. in economics at Stanford University. He replaces Matthew J. Memoli, M.D., who has served ably as the Acting NIH Director since Jan. 22, 2025.
    About the National Institutes of Health (NIH): NIH, the nation’s medical research agency, includes 27 Institutes and Centers and is a component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. NIH is the primary federal agency conducting and supporting basic, clinical, and translational medical research, and is investigating the causes, treatments, and cures for both common and rare diseases. For more information about NIH and its programs, visit www.nih.gov.
    NIH…Turning Discovery Into Health®
    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 2, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Occidental Announces Results of Offer to Exercise Warrants at a Temporarily Reduced Price

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HOUSTON, April 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Occidental (NYSE: OXY) today announced the results of its offer to exercise Occidental’s outstanding publicly traded warrants (the “Warrants”) at a temporarily reduced price of $21.30 per Warrant (the “Offer”). The Offer expired at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time on March 31, 2025.

    Based on the final count by Equiniti Trust Company, LLC, the depositary agent for the Offer, 41,941,075 Warrants were tendered and not validly withdrawn (including 69,166 Warrants tendered pursuant to the guaranteed delivery procedures available pursuant to the Offer). Occidental will issue 41,871,909 shares of Occidental’s common stock, $0.20 par value per share (“Common Stock”), and receive $891.9 million of aggregate proceeds in respect of the Warrants exercised, excluding the Warrants tendered pursuant to the guaranteed delivery procedures. If all of the guaranteed deliveries are consummated in accordance with the terms of the Offer, Occidental will issue an additional 69,166 shares of Common Stock and receive an additional $1.5 million of aggregate proceeds in respect of the Warrants tendered pursuant to guaranteed delivery. The Warrants that were not tendered and exercised in connection with the Offer remain in effect at an exercise price of $22.00 per Warrant.

    The Offer was subject to the terms and conditions set forth in the Offer to Exercise Warrants to Purchase Common Stock of Occidental Petroleum Corporation, dated March 3, 2025, filed as an exhibit to Occidental’s Schedule TO filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on March 3, 2025.

    This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy the Common Stock.

    About Occidental
    Occidental is an international energy company with assets primarily in the United States, the Middle East and North Africa. We are one of the largest oil and gas producers in the U.S., including a leading producer in the Permian and DJ basins, and offshore Gulf of America. Our midstream and marketing segment provides flow assurance and maximizes the value of our oil and gas, and includes our Oxy Low Carbon Ventures subsidiary, which is advancing leading-edge technologies and business solutions that economically grow our business while reducing emissions. Our chemical subsidiary OxyChem manufactures the building blocks for life-enhancing products. We are dedicated to using our global leadership in carbon management to advance a lower-carbon world.

    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, statements about Occidental’s expectations, beliefs, plans or forecasts. All statements other than statements of historical fact are “forward-looking statements” for purposes of federal and state securities laws, including, but not limited to: any projections of earnings, revenue or other financial items or future financial position or sources of financing; any statements of the plans, strategies and objectives of management for future operations or business strategy; any statements regarding future economic conditions or performance; any statements of belief; and any statements of assumptions underlying any of the foregoing. Words such as “estimate,” “project,” “predict,” “will,” “would,” “should,” “could,” “may,” “might,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “intend,” “believe,” “expect,” “aim,” “goal,” “target,” “objective,” “commit,” “advance,” “likely” or similar expressions that convey the prospective nature of events or outcomes are generally indicative of forward-looking statements. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release unless an earlier date is specified. Unless legally required, Occidental does not undertake any obligation to update, modify or withdraw any forward-looking statements as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Forward-looking statements involve estimates, expectations, projections, goals, forecasts, assumptions, risks and uncertainties. Actual outcomes or results may differ from anticipated results, sometimes materially. Factors that could cause results to differ from those projected or assumed in any forward-looking statement include, but are not limited to: general economic conditions, including slowdowns and recessions, domestically or internationally; Occidental’s indebtedness and other payment obligations, including the need to generate sufficient cash flows to fund operations; Occidental’s ability to successfully monetize select assets and repay or refinance debt and the impact of changes in Occidental’s credit ratings or future increases in interest rates; assumptions about energy markets; global and local commodity and commodity-futures pricing fluctuations and volatility; supply and demand considerations for, and the prices of, Occidental’s products and services; actions by the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and non-OPEC oil producing countries; results from operations and competitive conditions; future impairments of Occidental’s proved and unproved oil and gas properties or equity investments, or write-downs of productive assets, causing charges to earnings; unexpected changes in costs; inflation, its impact on markets and economic activity and related monetary policy actions by governments in response to inflation; availability of capital resources, levels of capital expenditures and contractual obligations; the regulatory approval environment, including Occidental’s ability to timely obtain or maintain permits or other government approvals, including those necessary for drilling and/or development projects; Occidental’s ability to successfully complete, or any material delay of, field developments, expansion projects, capital expenditures, efficiency projects, acquisitions or divestitures; risks associated with acquisitions, mergers and joint ventures, such as difficulties integrating businesses, uncertainty associated with financial projections or projected synergies, restructuring, increased costs and adverse tax consequences; uncertainties and liabilities associated with acquired and divested properties and businesses; uncertainties about the estimated quantities of oil, natural gas liquids and natural gas reserves; lower-than-expected production from development projects or acquisitions; Occidental’s ability to realize the anticipated benefits from prior or future streamlining actions to reduce fixed costs, simplify or improve processes and improve Occidental’s competitiveness; exploration, drilling and other operational risks; disruptions to, capacity constraints in, or other limitations on the pipeline systems that deliver Occidental’s oil and natural gas and other processing and transportation considerations; volatility in the securities, capital or credit markets, including capital market disruptions and instability of financial institutions; government actions (including geopolitical, trade, tariff and regulatory uncertainties), war (including the Russia-Ukraine war and conflicts in the Middle East) and political conditions and events; health, safety and environmental (HSE) risks, costs and liability under existing or future federal, regional, state, provincial, tribal, local and international HSE laws, regulations and litigation (including related to climate change or remedial actions or assessments); legislative or regulatory changes, including changes relating to hydraulic fracturing or other oil and natural gas operations, retroactive royalty or production tax regimes, and deep-water and onshore drilling and permitting regulations; Occidental’s ability to recognize intended benefits from its business strategies and initiatives, such as Occidental’s low-carbon ventures businesses or announced greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets or net-zero goals; potential liability resulting from pending or future litigation, government investigations and other proceedings; disruption or interruption of production or manufacturing or facility damage due to accidents, chemical releases, labor unrest, weather, power outages, natural disasters, cyber-attacks, terrorist acts or insurgent activity; the scope and duration of global or regional health pandemics or epidemics, and actions taken by government authorities and other third parties in connection therewith; the creditworthiness and performance of Occidental’s counterparties, including financial institutions, operating partners and other parties; failure of risk management; Occidental’s ability to retain and hire key personnel; supply, transportation and labor constraints; reorganization or restructuring of Occidental’s operations; changes in state, federal or international tax rates; and actions by third parties that are beyond Occidental’s control.

    Additional information concerning these and other factors that may cause Occidental’s results of operations and financial position to differ from expectations can be found in Occidental’s filings with the SEC, including Occidental’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K.

    Contacts

    The MIL Network –

    April 2, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: LeddarTech Enters Into Further Amendments to Credit Facility and Bridge Financing Offer and Announces Receipt of Nasdaq Deficiency Notice

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    QUEBEC CITY, Canada, April 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LeddarTech® Holdings Inc. (“LeddarTech”) (Nasdaq: LDTC), an automotive software company that provides patented disruptive AI-powered low-level sensor fusion and perception software technology, LeddarVision™, today announced that it has entered into:

    • a seventeenth amending agreement (the “Seventeenth Amending Agreement”) with Fédération des caisses Desjardins du Québec (“Desjardins”) with respect to the amended and restated financing offer dated as of April 5, 2023 (the “Desjardins Credit Facility”), pursuant to which Desjardins has agreed to, among other things, (i) temporarily postpone payment of interest for the months of July through December 2024 until the earlier of (x) the date of the final disbursement of one or several equity investments in the borrower for minimum gross proceeds amount of US$35,000,000 in the aggregate (the “Short-Term Outside Date”), and (y) May 23, 2025; and (ii) decrease the minimum cash covenant under the Desjardins Credit Facility to C$1,800,000;
    • a fifth amending agreement (the “Fifth Amending Agreement”) with the initial bridge lenders and certain members of management and the board of directors (collectively, the “Bridge Lenders”) with respect to the bridge financing offer dated as of August 16, 2024 (the “Bridge Financing Offer”) pursuant to which the Bridge Lenders have agreed to, among other things, extend the maturity of the bridge loan to the earlier of (x) May 23, 2025 and (y) the business day following the Short-Term Outside Date.

    The Seventeenth Amending Agreement to the Desjardins Credit Facility and the Fifth Amending Agreement to the Bridge Financing Offer also provide that LeddarTech must initiate and produce a plan at the satisfaction of Desjardins and the other initial Bridge Lenders regarding a refinancing, recapitalization or any suitable transaction (the “Plan”). LeddarTech continues to fully consider all potential sources of financing and/or other alternatives. There is no certainty that LeddarTech will be able to raise additional funds and there can be no assurance that LeddarTech will be successful in pursuing and implementing any such alternatives (including the Plan), nor any assurance as to the outcome or timing of any such alternatives.

    In addition, the Seventeenth Amending Agreement to the Desjardins Credit Facility provides for a monthly payment by LeddarTech to Desjardins of C$125,000, which monthly fee is earned and payable on the first day of each month, until the Short-Term Outside Date, which must occur on or prior to May 23, 2025. The payment of the monthly fees applicable for the month of August 2024 and for the months up until (and including) January 2025 is postponed to the earlier of (x) the Short-Term Outside Date and (y) May 23, 2025.

    The foregoing descriptions of the Seventeenth Amending Agreement to the Desjardins Credit Facility and the Fifth Amending Agreement to the Bridge Financing Offer do not purport to be complete and are qualified in their entirety by reference to such amendments, copies of which will be filed under LeddarTech’s SEDAR+ and EDGAR profiles at www.sedarplus.ca and www.sec.gov, respectively.

    Receipt of Nasdaq Deficiency Notice

    LeddarTech also announces that it has received a letter from the Listing Qualifications Department of the Nasdaq Stock Market LLC indicating that, based upon the closing bid price of LeddarTech’s common shares for the 30 consecutive business day period from February 14, 2025 to March 28, 2025, LeddarTech did not comply with the minimum market value of listed securities (“MVLS”) of US$35,000,000 (the “Listing Requirement”). The letter also indicated that LeddarTech will be afforded a period of 180 calendar days to regain compliance.

    LeddarTech intends to actively monitor the MVLS of its common shares and will evaluate available options to regain compliance with the Listing Requirement. However, there can be no assurance that LeddarTech will be able to regain compliance with such Listing Requirement or maintain compliance with any of the other Nasdaq Capital Market continued listing requirements. Readers should also refer to the press release issued by LeddarTech on March 21, 2025 with respect to the non-compliance with the minimum bid price of US$1.00 per share required for continued listing on the Nasdaq Capital Market.

    The letter has no immediate effect on the listing of LeddarTech’s common shares, which will continue to be listed and traded on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the symbol “LDTC,” subject to LeddarTech’s compliance with the other continued listing requirements of the Nasdaq Capital Market.

    The foregoing also should be read in conjunction with the disclosures set forth in LeddarTech’s Report of Foreign Private Issuer on Form 6-K as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and under LeddarTech’s SEDAR+ profile on the date hereof, and LeddarTech’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended September 30, 2024 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and under LeddarTech’s SEDAR+ profile on December 26, 2024, including the disclosures set forth under “Item 3.D – Key Information – Risk Factors” contained therein.

    About LeddarTech

    A global software company founded in 2007 and headquartered in Quebec City with additional R&D centers in Montreal and Tel Aviv, Israel, LeddarTech develops and provides comprehensive AI-based low-level sensor fusion and perception software solutions that enable the deployment of ADAS, autonomous driving (AD) and parking applications. LeddarTech’s automotive-grade software applies advanced AI and computer vision algorithms to generate accurate 3D models of the environment to achieve better decision making and safer navigation. This high-performance, scalable, cost-effective technology is available to OEMs and Tier 1-2 suppliers to efficiently implement automotive and off-road vehicle ADAS solutions.

    LeddarTech is responsible for several remote-sensing innovations, with over 170 patent applications (87 granted) that enhance ADAS, AD and parking capabilities. Better awareness around the vehicle is critical in making global mobility safer, more efficient, sustainable and affordable: this is what drives LeddarTech to seek to become the most widely adopted sensor fusion and perception software solution.

    Additional information about LeddarTech is accessible at www.leddartech.com and on LinkedIn, Twitter (X), Facebook and YouTube.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Certain statements contained in this Press Release may be considered forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (which forward-looking statements also include forward-looking statements and forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws), including, but not limited to, statements relating to LeddarTech’s anticipated strategy, future operations, prospects, objectives and financial projections and other financial metrics. Forward-looking statements generally include statements that are predictive in nature and depend upon or refer to future events or conditions, and include words such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “would,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “likely,” “believe,” “estimate,” “project,” “intend” and other similar expressions among others. Statements that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on current beliefs and assumptions that are subject to risks and uncertainties and are not guarantees of future performance. Actual results could differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement as a result of various factors, including, without limitation: (i) our ability to continue to maintain compliance with Nasdaq continued listing standards following our transfer to the Nasdaq Capital Market; (ii) our ability to timely access sufficient capital and financing on favorable terms or at all; (iii) our ability to maintain compliance with our debt covenants, including our ability to enter into any forbearance agreements, waivers or amendments with, or obtain other relief from, our lenders as needed; (iv) discussions regarding potential alternatives relating to refinancing, recapitalization or any suitable transaction (including the Plan); (v) our ability to execute on our business model, achieve design wins and generate meaningful revenue; (vi) our ability to successfully commercialize our product offering at scale, whether through the collaboration agreement with Texas Instruments, a collaboration with a Tier 2 supplier or otherwise; (vii) changes in our strategy, future operations, financial position, estimated revenues and losses, projected costs and plans; (viii) changes in general economic and/or industry-specific conditions; (ix) our ability to retain, attract and hire key personnel; (x) potential adverse changes to relationships with our customers, employees, suppliers or other parties; (xi) legislative, regulatory and economic developments; (xii) the outcome of any known and unknown litigation and regulatory proceedings; (xiii) unpredictability and severity of catastrophic events, including, but not limited to, acts of terrorism, outbreak of war or hostilities and any epidemic, pandemic or disease outbreak, as well as management’s response to any of the aforementioned factors; and (xiv) other risk factors as detailed from time to time in LeddarTech’s reports filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), including the risk factors contained in LeddarTech’s Form 20-F filed with the SEC. The foregoing list of important factors is not exhaustive. Except as required by applicable law, LeddarTech does not undertake any obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statement, or to make any other forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Contact:
    Chris Stewart, Chief Financial Officer, LeddarTech Holdings Inc.

    Tel.: + 1-514-427-0858, chris.stewart@leddartech.com

    Leddar, LeddarTech, LeddarVision, LeddarSP, VAYADrive, VayaVision and related logos are trademarks or registered trademarks of LeddarTech Holdings Inc. and its subsidiaries. All other brands, product names and marks are or may be trademarks or registered trademarks used to identify products or services of their respective owners.

    LeddarTech Holdings Inc. is a public company listed on the Nasdaq under the ticker symbol “LDTC.”

    The MIL Network –

    April 2, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Global Assessment Report (GAR) 2025

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    Disasters, pandemics, and other shocks are becoming more frequent, more intense, and more unpredictable. At the same time, the costs of responding and rebuilding are rising faster than many countries can manage. To avoid falling deeper into debt and disruption, we need a new kind of financial system, one that is ready before the crisis starts, and flexible enough to support recovery after.

    This section explores how governments, businesses, and financial institutions can work together to build that system. It looks at how public and private money can be combined to fund resilience, how better data and regulation can reduce risk, and how financial tools, from insurance to social protection, can help people and economies bounce back stronger.

    Each part offers practical ways to shift from a system that reacts to disasters, to one that plans, protects, and invests in long-term resilience.

    5.1 Scaling Up Blended Finance

    Most countries do not have enough public money to meet their growing disaster and climate risks. But private investors are often hesitant to put money into high-risk areas. Blended finance helps solve this problem by using public or development funding to reduce risk and attract private capital.

    Platforms like GAIA (Global Action on Investment for Adaptation <<https://www.greenclimate.fund/project/fp223>>) aim to make this easier. [add link] GAIA works to bring governments, private investors, and communities together to support projects that reduce disaster risk, protect ecosystems, and build long-term resilience. These platforms make it easier to fund solutions in places that need them most, but that investors might otherwise avoid.

    Blended finance is not just about funding projects. It is about changing how and where money flows, so that resilience becomes part of every investment decision.

    5.2 Corporate Climate Risk Disclosures

    Businesses face growing risks from climate change and disasters, but many still do not fully understand or report them. This creates blind spots for investors, insurers, and regulators. One important step is to make climate risk disclosure part of standard business reporting.

    Mandatory reporting systems, like those being adopted in the European Union and other regions, help companies identify their exposure to climate risks. This includes physical risks, like floods or heatwaves, and financial risks, such as supply chain disruptions or energy price shocks.

    When risks are made visible, businesses are more likely to act early. Investors can make better decisions, and regulators can help reduce systemic financial risks across the economy.

    5.3 Expanding Regional Insurance Mechanisms

    For many small or vulnerable countries, the cost of disasters is too big to manage alone. Regional insurance pools allow countries to share the risk and access quick funding after a shock. These systems are especially useful for small island states and low-income countries with limited financial reserves.

    Two leading examples are: [links to those initiatives in the web]

    These mechanisms help countries access payouts quickly after hurricanes, earthquakes, or floods. This reduces pressure on public budgets and speeds up recovery. Countries pay into the pool, and when disaster strikes, they get fast, rules-based support. Check how regional insurance helped Dominica recover more quickly from one of the strongest storms ever recorded in the Caribbean.

    Case study: [CCRIF payout after Hurricane Maria in Dominica]

    5.4. Unlocking Green Resilience Bonds

    Green bonds are already used to fund projects that reduce emissions or support clean energy. But they can also support disaster resilience. When these bonds include components like flood protection, climate-smart agriculture, or heat-resilient infrastructure, they become powerful tools for long-term risk reduction.

    Some governments and financial institutions are now designing green resilience bonds that combine climate and disaster goals. These bonds allow investors to support both environmental and social outcomes.

    For example, Costa Rica issued green bonds with a focus on nature-based solutions and climate adaptation. These projects aim to both cut emissions and reduce the impacts of floods and droughts.

    Case study: [Costa Rica’s green bond program]

    5.5. Adaptive Social Protection for Disaster Recovery

    Social protection systems, like cash transfers, food assistance, or public works programs, can be powerful tools for resilience, especially when they are flexible. When designed to scale up during shocks, they can protect people from falling into poverty after a disaster.

    This is called adaptive social protection. It links disaster early warning systems with financial systems that can respond quickly to changing needs. For example, a drought warning might trigger extra cash support for farmers before their crops fail.

    Like in the Philippines, a national social protection program was adapted to respond to typhoon impacts. It helped deliver assistance more quickly and reach the most vulnerable communities during emergencies.

    Case study: [Philippines’ shock-responsive social protection system]

    5.6. How Central Banks Can Support Resilience Finance

    Central banks play a key role in keeping economies stable. As climate risks grow, they can also help make financial systems more resilient. This means looking at how disasters affect inflation, lending, and investment flows, and adjusting policies to support preparedness.

    Central banks can include disaster and climate risks in their stress tests and financial supervision. They can also support green finance guidelines, invest in resilience bonds, or offer incentives for banks that support risk reduction projects.

    Bangladesh’s central bank created a special refinancing scheme to support solar energy, flood-resilient housing, and climate-smart farming. This shows how monetary policy can support resilience at the local level.

    Case study: [Bangladesh Bank’s green refinancing program]

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    April 2, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Lantronix Names Tech Industry Veteran Todd Rychecky General Manager and Head of Out-of-Band Management Business

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    IRVINE, Calif., April 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Lantronix Inc. (NASDAQ: LTRX), a global leader of compute and connectivity for IoT solutions enabling Edge AI Intelligence, today announced the appointment of Todd Rychecky as general manager and head of its Out-of-Band (OOB) Management Business Line. With a proven track record in network resilience, SaaS solutions and OOB management, Rychecky will play a pivotal role in expanding Lantronix’s market presence and driving strategic growth in this critical sector.

    Rychecky brings a proven track record of success in the OOB management space, having played a key role in scaling OpenGear’s business as well as leading major strategic deals, including a landmark $100 million network resilience contract. With deep expertise in product positioning, SaaS business models and global sales leadership, Rychecky is well-positioned to drive growth and innovation at Lantronix.

    “This is an exciting time for Lantronix as we continue to position ourselves as a leader in AI-driven networking solutions,” said Mathi Gurusamy, chief strategy and product officer at Lantronix. “With Todd’s deep expertise and strategic vision, we are confident in our ability to scale our Out-of-Band business, enhance our market presence and deliver groundbreaking solutions to our customers.”

    As general manager of Lantronix’s OOB Management Business Line, Rychecky is responsible for:

    • Strategic leadership of Lantronix’s OOB Management business, aligning it with the company’s broader AI and connectivity strategy;
    • Driving revenue growth and profitability, leveraging his extensive experience in scaling technology businesses and building successful sales teams;
    • Expanding Lantronix’s OOB market share through product innovation, strategic partnerships and enhanced customer engagement; and
    • Enhancing financial performance, overseeing P&L and optimizing cost efficiencies.

    Rychecky joins Lantronix at a vital moment as the company leverages AI-driven solutions across its core business lines, including OOB Management, Network Equipment and Industrial IoT.

    With a robust product pipeline, including its LM80, LM83, LM4, SLC8000, EMG7500/8500 and Spider as well as its upcoming innovations SLC9000, LM48 and 5G-enabled LM series, Lantronix offers a comprehensive suite of OOB management solutions. These solutions empower enterprises with secure, resilient network management tools, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity and streamlined IT operations. Additionally, Lantronix’s LEVEL SERVICES provide enterprise customers with customized, high-touch technical support to meet evolving network demands.

    “I am thrilled to join Lantronix at this crucial juncture to lead the company’s Out-of-Band management business to new heights,” said Rychecky. “Lantronix has a strong foundation, cutting-edge AI-driven solutions and an unmatched product portfolio. I look forward to driving innovation, scaling the business and helping our customers achieve greater network resilience and operational efficiency.”

    About Lantronix

    Lantronix Inc. is a global leader of compute and connectivity IoT solutions that target high-growth markets, including Smart Cities, Enterprise and Transportation. Lantronix’s products and services empower companies to succeed in the growing IoT markets by delivering customizable solutions that enable AI Edge Intelligence. Lantronix’s advanced solutions include Intelligent Substations infrastructure, Infotainment systems and Video Surveillance, supplemented with advanced Out-of-Band Management (OOB) for Cloud and Edge Computing.

    For more information, visit the Lantronix website.

    “Safe Harbor” Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995: This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of federal securities laws, including, without limitation, statements related to Lantronix products or leadership team. These forward-looking statements are based on our current expectations and are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual results, future business, financial condition, or performance to differ materially from our historical results or those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statement contained in this news release. The potential risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, such factors as the effects of negative or worsening regional and worldwide economic conditions or market instability on our business, including effects on purchasing decisions by our customers; our ability to mitigate any disruption in our and our suppliers’ and vendors’ supply chains due to the COVID-19 pandemic or other outbreaks, wars and recent tensions in Europe, Asia and the Middle East, or other factors; future responses to and effects of public health crises; cybersecurity risks; changes in applicable U.S. and foreign government laws, regulations, and tariffs; our ability to successfully implement our acquisitions strategy or integrate acquired companies; difficulties and costs of protecting patents and other proprietary rights; the level of our indebtedness, our ability to service our indebtedness and the restrictions in our debt agreements; and any additional factors included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on Sept. 9, 2024, including in the section entitled “Risk Factors” in Item 1A of Part I of that report, as well as in our other public filings with the SEC. Additional risk factors may be identified from time to time in our future filings. In addition, actual results may differ as a result of additional risks and uncertainties about which we are currently unaware or which we do not currently view as material to our business. For these reasons, investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements we make speak only as of the date on which they are made. We expressly disclaim any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking statements after the date hereof to conform such statements to actual results or to changes in our opinions or expectations, except as required by applicable law or the rules of the Nasdaq Stock Market LLC. If we do update or correct any forward-looking statements, investors should not conclude that we will make additional updates or corrections.

    Lantronix Media Contact:
    Gail Kathryn Miller
    Corporate Marketing &
    Communications Manager
    media@lantronix.com

    Lantronix Analyst and Investor Contact:        
    investors@lantronix.com

    ©2025 Lantronix, Inc. All rights reserved. Lantronix is a registered trademark. Other trademarks and trade names are those of their respective owners.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/cd905e61-186c-497b-a86f-26916432a567.

    The MIL Network –

    April 2, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Preparedness for the COVID-19 pandemic – E-001040/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001040/2025/rev.1
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Gerald Hauser (PfE)

    In the official answer to my parliamentary question (11265/J), Austria’s Minister of the Interior, Gerhard Karner (ÖVP), stated that four pandemic simulation and preparation exercises had been run in the USA this millennium (Atlantic Storm, CLADE X, Event 201 and Spars Pandemic 2025-2028)[1]. In October 2019, in partnership with the World Economic Forum and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security simulated a pandemic with a SARS-related coronavirus (Event 201). Moderna’s CEO, Stéphane Bancel, publicly stated that he informed his staff in 2019 that a pandemic would occur in 2020 and that Moderna would have to produce billions of doses of vaccines[2].

    • 1.As of when did the Commission and its agencies (in particular the EMA and the ECDC) know that a pandemic would occur in 2020?
    • 2.Did the Commission and its agencies participate in the above-mentioned simulation exercises or any other such exercises?
    • 3.In what form (human, financial, material, ideological, etc.) did the Commission provide support for simulation exercises to prepare for a pandemic?

    Submitted: 11.3.2025

    • [1] https://www.parlament.gv.at/gegenstand/XXVII/AB/11010
    • [2] https://www.weforum.org/meetings/world-economic-forum-annual-meeting-2023/sessions/state-of-the-pandemic/
    Last updated: 1 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Defiance Launches RGTX: 2X Leveraged ETF for Rigetti Computing, Inc.

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MIAMI, April 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Defiance ETFs introduces RGTX, the Defiance Daily Target 2X Long RGTI ETF, a 2X leveraged single-stock ETF designed to provide amplified exposure to Rigetti Computing, Inc. (Nasdaq: RGTI). This ETF offers traders a way to seek enhanced returns on Rigetti Computing, Inc. without requiring a margin account.

    RGTX seeks daily investment results that correspond to twice (200%) the daily percentage change of Rigetti Computing, a pioneer in quantum computing that has advanced the industry with innovative technology and cutting-edge research.

    “RGTX offers investors a way to seek leveraged exposure to Rigetti Computing, a known leader in quantum computing technology,” said Sylvia Jablonski, CEO of Defiance ETFs. “As Rigetti continues to develop its proprietary quantum processors and expand its Quantum Computing as a Service (QCaaS) platform, this ETF provides a trading tool for those looking to engage with the company’s market performance.”

    For more information, visit DefianceETFs.com.

    The Fund is not intended to be used by, and is not appropriate for, investors who do not intend to actively monitor and manage their portfolios. The Fund pursues a daily leveraged investment objective, which means that the Fund is riskier than alternatives that do not use leverage because the Fund magnifies the performance of the Underlying Security. The Fund is not suitable for all investors. The Fund is designed to be utilized only by knowledgeable investors who understand the potential consequences of seeking daily leveraged (2X) investment results, understand the risks associated with the use of leverage, and are willing to monitor their portfolios frequently. For periods longer than a single day, the Fund will lose money if the Underlying Security’s performance is flat, and it is possible that the Fund will lose money even if the Underlying Security’s performance increases over a period longer than a single day. An investor could lose the full principal value of their investment within a single day.

    An investment in RGTX is not an investment in Rigetti Computing, Inc.

    About Defiance ETFs

    Founded in 2018, Defiance is at the forefront of ETF innovation. Defiance is a leading ETF issuer specializing in thematic, income, and leveraged ETFs. Our first-mover leveraged single-stock ETFs empower investors to take amplified positions in high-growth companies, providing precise leverage exposure without the need to open a margin account.

    IMPORTANT DISCLOSURES

    Defiance ETFs LLC is the ETF sponsor. The Fund’s investment adviser is Tidal Investments, LLC (“Tidal” or the “Adviser”). The Fund’s investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses must be considered carefully before investing. The prospectus and summary prospectus contain this and other important information about the investment company. Please read carefully before investing. A hard copy of the prospectuses can be requested by calling 833.333.9383.

    Investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible. As an ETF, the fund may trade at a premium or discount to NAV. Shares of any ETF are bought and sold at market price (not NAV) and are not individually redeemed from the Fund. A portfolio concentrated in a single industry or company may be subject to a higher degree of risk.

    RGTX Risks: The Fund invests in swap contracts and options that are based on the share price of RGTI. This subjects the Fund to certain of the same risks as if it owned shares of RGTI even though it does not.

    Indirect Investment Risk. RGTI is not affiliated with the Trust, the Fund, or the Adviser, or their respective affiliates and is not involved with this offering in any way and has no obligation to consider your Shares in taking any corporate actions that might affect the value of Shares.

    Trading Risk. The trading price of the Fund may be subject to volatility and could experience wide fluctuations due to various factors. Short sellers may also play a significant role in trading RGTI, potentially affecting the supply and demand dynamics and contributing to market price volatility. Public perception and external factors beyond the company’s control may influence RGTI’s stock price disproportionately.

    Performance Risk. RGTI may fail to meet publicly announced guidelines or other expectations about its business, which could cause the price of RGTI to decline.

    RGTI Operational Risks. RGTI’s plans to expand its quantum computing business introduce significant uncertainties that may not yield desired outcomes. Operations are subject to complex and evolving laws, with non-compliance posing threats to RGTI’s business. Past and potential future regulatory investigations, settlements, and litigation could lead to substantial costs and reputational damage. Intense competition from rivals with greater resources threatens RGTI’s market position and revenue.

    Technology and Market Risks. The industry is highly susceptible to fluctuations in economic conditions, changes in market sentiment, and regulatory alterations, which can significantly affect market volatility and investment in quantum computing. Technological disruptions or failures, including cybersecurity breaches, could compromise sensitive data and disrupt operations, potentially leading to financial losses.

    RGTX Fund Risks

    Leverage Risk. The Fund obtains investment exposure in excess of its net assets by utilizing leverage and may lose more money in market conditions that are adverse to its investment objective than a fund that does not utilize leverage. An investment in the Fund is exposed to the risk that a decline in the daily performance of the Underlying Security will be magnified.

    High Portfolio Turnover Risk. Daily rebalancing of the Fund’s holdings pursuant to its daily investment objective causes a much greater number of portfolio transactions when compared to most ETFs.

    Liquidity Risk. Some securities held by the Fund may be difficult to sell or be illiquid, particularly during times of market turmoil. Markets for securities or financial instruments could be disrupted by a number of events, including, but not limited to, an economic crisis, natural disasters, epidemics/pandemics, new legislation, or regulatory changes inside or outside the United States.

    Derivatives Risk. The Fund’s investments in derivatives may pose risks in addition to, and greater than, those associated with directly investing in securities or other ordinary investments, including risks related to the market, leverage, imperfect daily correlations with underlying investments or the Fund’s other portfolio holdings, higher price volatility, lack of availability, counterparty risk, liquidity, valuation, and legal restrictions.

    Compounding and Market Volatility Risk. The Fund has a daily leveraged investment objective and the Fund’s performance for periods greater than a trading day will be the result of each day’s returns compounded over the period, which is very likely to differ from two times (200%) the Underlying Security’s performance, before the Fund’s management fee and other expenses.

    Fixed Income Securities Risk. When the Fund invests in fixed income securities, the value of your investment in the Fund will fluctuate with changes in interest rates. Typically, a rise in interest rates causes a decline in the value of fixed-income securities owned by the Fund.

    Single Issuer Risk. Issuer-specific attributes may cause an investment in the Fund to be more volatile than a traditional pooled investment, which diversifies risk across the market. The value of the Fund, which focuses on an individual security, may be more volatile than a traditional pooled investment or the market as a whole and may perform differently from the market as a whole.

    New Fund Risk. The Fund is a recently organized management investment company with no operating history. As a result, prospective investors do not have a track record or history on which to base their investment decisions.

    Diversification does not ensure a profit nor protect against loss in a declining market. Brokerage Commissions may be charged on trades.

    Distributed by Foreside Fund Services, LLC

    Contact Information

    David Hanono
    info@defianceetfs.com
    833.333.9383

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6ac47ca8-b652-4f80-8b24-f032001e3137

    The MIL Network –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Fly tipping blitz campaign and community lounge partnership shortlisted for national awards

    Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

    Published: Tuesday, 1st April 2025

    An innovative community partnership that has helped more than 4,000 people access vital support and a council service leading a blitz on fly-tipping are up for awards that recognise local government.

    Environmental Services is nominated for ‘Best Council Services Team’ at the MJ Achievement Awards 2025, while the Communities Together scheme is up for the ‘Community Engagement Award’.

    The first relates to the IDIOT (Illegal Dumping in Our Towns) campaign, which was launched in 2023 after fly tipping emerged as a major concern during that year’s local elections. It pledged rapid responses to clearing dumped waste, tougher enforcement and educating the community.

    The initial aim was to clear 1,000 fly tipping incidents in the first 100 days and this was achieved in half the time. This initial crackdown resulted in 2,395 clearances of illegal waste, as well as 523 fixed penalty notices.

    By the end of 2024, 7,661 reported fly tipping incidents were cleared and the average time when responding to these fell to just 3.3 days on average (previously 13.1 days).

    This was an 84 per cent increase in reports on the previous 16 months – with the much-improved visual appearance of the city and the upsurge of civil pride amounts to a resounding success.

    In addition, Communities Together has evolved from the community and city council’s response to the Covid-19 pandemic, becoming a local partnership programme to set up locations where people can easily access help, advice and support.

    There are now 18 community lounges across Stoke-on-Trent, with each one tailored to the unique needs and characteristics of their location – effectively helping reduce health inequalities.

    Through this more focused and preventative approach, Communities Together has helped reduce the stigma around seeking help, promoted independence and reduced pressure on other services.

    Since April 2024, the community lounges have helped 4,019 residents in a wide range of areas:

    • 1,273 people received emergency food provision
    • 783 people had help with financial matters
    • 737 people has help with housing
    • 196 people received mental health support
    • 159 people received help with homelessness

    Councillor Jane Ashworth, leader of Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “Having two projects receiving national recognition at the MJ Awards is an amazing achievement and a reflection of the hard work so many of the city council and our partners have put in to accomplish this.

    “By promoting community cohesion, we have been able to help and support residents in a variety of ways, whilst also helping communities look and feel healthier through the crackdown on fly tipping.

    “Congratulations to all involved on their hard work and dedication and wishing you the best of luck at the upcoming MJ Awards ceremony.”

    The winners of the MJ Awards will be announced at a ceremony at Park Plaza Westminster Bridge on Friday 20th June 2025.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Lawrence Tallon begins role as new MHRA CEO

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Lawrence Tallon begins role as new MHRA CEO

    Lawrence Tallon today (1 April 2025) begins his role as Chief Executive Officer of the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).

    Lawrence brings a strong focus on patient safety, innovation and partnership working, which have been central to his previous roles including as Deputy Chief Executive of Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust since March 2020.

    Lawrence said: “I am delighted to be joining the MHRA, which plays a vital role in ensuring people across the UK and the NHS have access to safe and effective medicines and medical devices.

    “My priorities are patient safety, improving patient access to new medicines and medical devices through risk-proportionate regulation, innovation and growth, and building partnerships in the UK and internationally.”

    Lawrence has also been Managing Director of the Shelford Group, which represents some of England’s leading NHS teaching hospitals. This experience has given him valuable insight into the challenges and opportunities facing modern healthcare and life science systems.

    Prior to this he served as Director of Strategy, Planning and Performance at University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust and worked within the Department of Health and Social Care alongside ministers and NHS leaders.

    Lawrence succeeds Dr June Raine DBE, who is retiring after leading the MHRA since 2019, having steered the agency through the COVID-19 pandemic and the UK’s exit from the European Union.

    Lawrence was announced as the new MHRA CEO in March 2025 by the Department of Health and Social Care.

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    Updates to this page

    Published 1 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: REPORT on Parliament’s estimates of revenue and expenditure for the financial year 2026 – A10-0048/2025

    Source: European Parliament 2

    MOTION FOR A EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT RESOLUTION

    on Parliament’s estimates of revenue and expenditure for the financial year 2026

    (2024/2111(BUI))

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to Article 314 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,

    – having regard to Council Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2020/2093 of 17 December 2020 laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2021-2027[1] and to the joint declaration agreed between Parliament, the Council and the Commission in this context[2] and the related unilateral declarations[3],

    – having regard to Council Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2022/2496 of 15 December 2022 amending Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2020/2093 laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2021 to 2027[4],

    – having regard to the Council Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/765 amending Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2020/2093 laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2021 to 2027[5] (”MFF Revision”),

    – having regard to its legislative resolution of 16 December 2020 on the draft Council regulation laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2021 to 2027[6],

    – having regard to its resolution of 15 December 2022 on upscaling the 2021-2027 multiannual financial framework: a resilient EU budget fit for new challenges[7],

    – having regard to its resolution of 3 October 2023 on the proposal for a mid-term revision of the multiannual financial framework 2021-2027[8],

    – having regard to its resolution of 27 February 2024 on the draft Council regulation amending Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2020/2093 laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2021 to 2027[9],

    – having regard to Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 September 2024 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union (recast)[10] (the “Financial Regulation”),

    – having regard to the Interinstitutional Agreement of 16 December 2020 between the European Parliament, the Council of the European Union and the European Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management, as well as on new own resources, including a roadmap towards the introduction of new own resources[11],

    – having regard to the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2025[12] and the joint statements agreed between Parliament, the Council and the Commission annexed hereto,

    – having regard to the Secretary-General’s report to the Bureau on drawing up Parliament’s preliminary draft estimates for the financial year 2026,

    –  having regard to the preliminary draft estimates drawn up by the Bureau on 10 March 2025 pursuant to Rules 25(7) and 104(1) of Parliament’s Rules of Procedure,

    –  having regard to the draft estimates drawn up by the Committee on Budgets pursuant to Rule 104(2) of Parliament’s Rules of Procedure,

    –  having regard to Rule 104 of its Rules of Procedure,

    –  having regard to the report of the Committee on Budgets (A10-0048/2025),

    A.  whereas the budget proposed on 10 February 2025 by the Secretary-General for the Parliament’s preliminary draft estimates for 2026 amounts to EUR 2 641 609 620 and represents an increase of 4,30 % or EUR 108 914 512 compared to 2025 budget;

    B.  whereas the Union annual inflation was 2,8 % in January 2025 according to Eurostat, up from 2,7 % in December 2024; whereas the level of expenditure in Heading 7 of the multiannual financial framework (MFF) 2021-2027 is based on a 2 % yearly increase;

    C.  whereas the credibility of the Parliament depends on its ability to deliver on its core budgetary, legislative and scrutiny work to the highest standard, while setting an example vis-à-vis other Union institutions to plan and conduct its spending prudently and efficiently and to reflect the prevalent economic realities;

    General framework

    1. Is concerned with the situation of Heading 7 in the current MFF; recalls that the constraints are the results of the cuts applied by the Council to the Commission’s already very low initial proposal when agreeing on the current MFF 2021-2027; regrets the Council’s opposition to the Commission’s proposal to increase the ceiling of Heading 7 in the MFF revision as from 2024; points out the failure to address the issue of the ceiling of Heading 7 in the MFF revision; highlights that the forecasted negative margin for 2026 presupposes the use of special instruments in Heading 7 for that purpose;

    2. Endorses the agreement reached in the Conciliation between the Bureau and the Committee on Budgets on 18 March 2025 to set the increase over the 2025 budget at 4,09 %, corresponding to an overall of estimates of EUR 2 636 241 620 for 2026, and to reduce accordingly the appropriations proposed on the following budget lines for a total of EUR 12 378 000:

    1 0 0 6 — General expenditure allowance, 1 4 2 — External translation services, 2 0 0 0 — Rent, 2 0 0 7 — Construction of buildings and fitting-out of premises, 2 0 2 4 — Energy consumption, 2 1 0 1 — Business applications management, 3 2 0 — Acquisition of expertise, 3 2 4 3 — European Parliament visitors’ centres, 3 2 4 8 — Expenditure on audiovisual information, 4 4 — Meetings and other activities of current and former Members;

    furthermore, it was decided to increase the level of expenditure of the preliminary draft estimates approved by the Bureau on 10 March 2025 by EUR 7 010 000 and to increase accordingly the appropriations proposed on the following budget lines:

    1 2 0 0 — Remuneration and allowances, 1 6 3 0 — Social welfare: welfare expenditure, 4 0 0 — Current administrative expenditure and expenditure relating to the political and information activities of the political groups and non-attached Members, and 4 0 3 — Funding of European political foundations;

    finally, it was agreed to modify the budgetary remarks of item 1 6 3 0 — Social welfare: welfare expenditure to include the reference to the APA Committee;

    3. Recalls that almost two-thirds of the budget is fixed by statutory obligations; notes that out of the increase of EUR 103,5 million compared to the 2025 budget an increase of EUR 85,3 million is due to statutory financial obligations, mainly for salary updates of officials and temporary staff (EUR 52,7 million), of contract agents (EUR 9,2 million) and of accredited parliamentary assistants (EUR 15,1 million); recalls that the salary indexation, in line with the Staff Regulations and Statute for Members of the European Parliament, is currently forecasted by the Commission for April 2025, July 2025, April 2026 and July 2026 at 1,2 %, 4,6 %, 0,6 % and 3,4 % respectively;

    4. Notes that the Parliament does not request any additional posts for 2026, the third year in a row;

    5. Notes that the increase for non-statutory expenditures between 2025 and 2026 is 1,96 %;

    6. Welcomes the initiative of the Secretary-General to conduct a major screening exercise aimed at identifying opportunities for administrative simplification, eliminating inefficiencies and ensuring tangible cost reductions, thereby increasing efficiency and ensuring a smart use of resources; asks the Secretary-General to provide the Committee on Budgets with semestrial updates on the actions taken and on the Action Plan on Simplification as well as their impact in terms of budget and staff; underlines that administrative procedures and human resources management represent a heavy burden for Members, in particular when hiring local assistants, and calls for simplification in that regard;

    7. Notes that Parliament’s budget should be established on a realistic basis, in compliance with the principles of budgetary discipline and sound financial management; highlights that it is essential to ensure that financial prudence and security remain key priorities while guaranteeing that these measures do not impede the efficiency, effectiveness and operational capacity of the institution and its essential staff in carrying out their duties successfully; stresses that, given the geopolitical context and the investments that the Union will have to make for its strategic autonomy, the Parliament must set an example in the management of its budget;

    8. Highlights Parliament’s role in building European political awareness and promoting Union values and policies such as the digital and green transition; stresses that transparency, accountability, gender equality and integrity are essential principles within the Union institutions and particularly Parliament as a house of European democracy;

    Strengthening Parliament’s core functions

    9. Takes note of the four new thematic Directorates-General (DGs) created in September 2024, responsible for legislative, budgetary and scrutiny activities, from the previous Directorate-General for Internal Policies, in order to improve the functioning of Parliament as a co-legislator, as one arm of the budgetary authority, and as discharge authority; requests the Secretary-General to provide the Committee on Budgets with regular updates on the evolution of work and staff in these DGs;

    10. Recognises the need for more political decision-making based on evidence and facts; takes note of the budget of EUR 16,75 million to strengthen Parliament’s administrative capacity in supporting Members in their parliamentary work and reinforcing its capacity to navigate complexity and uncertainty;

     

    11. Stresses the crucial role of political groups in providing expertise and political support to Members in their legislative and parliamentary work; underlines the need to ensure the important objective of strengthening Parliament’s capacity to support the work of Members;

    Digital transition

    12. Underlines that Parliament’s cybersecurity is a key priority; notes that the overall IT budget represents 7,40 % of the total budget in the 2026 estimates; stresses the importance of a sound cybersecurity infrastructure in geopolitically turbulent times and welcomes the increase in the appropriations dedicated to cybersecurity; supports the planned gradual increase of the cybersecurity financial appropriations to 10 % of Parliament’s ICT budget by 2027;

    13. Welcomes the adoption by the Bureau on 10 February 2025 of the Framework on an internal cybersecurity risk management, governance and control framework; recalls that investments in cybersecurity are key to protect the democratic voice of the Parliament and the Union;

    14. Welcomes investments in Artificial Intelligence (AI) amounting to EUR 1 million; calls for the use of AI to be increased in order to gain efficiencies, while keeping in mind the related risks, including ethics and data protection; highlights the potential of AI to streamline administrative processes; stresses that AI deployment must balance innovation with necessary safeguards; notes that the development of AI will be closely monitored in line with the principles established by the Bureau, which include among others a thorough risk assessment with the use of new technologies; calls the Secretariat to provide solutions, such as applications and tools, to be made available to Members and staff as soon as possible;

    Green transition

     

    15. Welcomes Parliament’s environmental management system (EMAS) targets for 2025-2029; recalls that energy efficiency investments are a good method of achieving value for money; takes note of the budget of EUR 8,45 million for investments on energy efficiency and environment in the 2026 estimates to further improve the environmental performance of its buildings; notes that this corresponds to an increase of 74 % compared to 2025 budget; acknowledges however, that these environmental actions are part of the 2007 ‘Construction of building and fitting out of premises’ budget line whose grand total has decreased by EUR 3,7 million in 2026 vs 2025;

     

    16. Recalls that nearly two-thirds of Parliament’s carbon footprint originate from the transportation of people; calls for a reasonable decrease of travel for meetings that can be effectively conducted remotely or in hybrid mode and to promote a shift to low carbon alternatives for all remaining travel, in so far as this does not affect the quality of legislative and political work;

     

    17. Takes note of the projected increase in carbon credits prices, that with the current emissions levels would need an estimated EUR 900 000 for 2026; calls the administration to continue decreasing, in line with sound financial management, Parliament’s emissions over buying carbon credits; welcomes the introduction of an enhanced train offer for missions to Strasbourg as of July 2025, as a positive step towards reducing CO2 emissions;

     

    18. Notes that Parliament has installed and is continuing to install photovoltaic solar panels to further increase the share of renewable energy produced on-site to reach the target of 25 %; takes note of the answers provided by the Secretary-General to Parliament’s estimates of revenue and expenditure for the financial year 2024 pointing out that a study on the use of photovoltaic panels for Strasbourg buildings was carried out in 2022 and was completed in 2023 and that further studies were to be conducted in 2024 for viable solutions, in particular for the WEISS building;

    Multilingualism, communication and disinformation

     

    19. Highlights that multilingualism is a key principle on which Parliament’s work is based; takes note of the revision of the Code of Conduct on Multilingualism planned for spring 2025; asks that, where appropriate, Parliament capitalise on major technological evolutions in multilingualism-related services, including the development and use of AI; asks the Secretary-General to timely inform the Committee on Budgets on any budgetary impacts following this revision;

     

    20. Highlights the role played by European Parliament Liaison Offices (EPLOs) in countering foreign interference and disinformation; takes note in that regard of the work of EPLOs proactively promoting the work of Parliament in their local languages across multiple channels; highlights EPLOs’ role in the UK as the main contact point for Union nationals resident in the UK, providing them with information about the Parliament and encouraging them to vote in the European elections; requests the Bureau to expand the production and dissemination of communication materials in an accessible and inclusive manner;

     

    21. Highlights the low participation rate of young people in the recent European elections in some regions of the Union and Parliament’s role in strengthening EU citizenship education;

     

    22. Recalls the importance of the European Parliament Ambassador School programme to promote active engagement among young Europeans and of the training programme for young journalists named in honour of David Sassoli to strengthen the understanding of the Union and its functioning amongst journalists, as the best antidote against disinformation, in light of recent trends demonstrating a worrying decline in media freedom and independence across the Union;

     

    23. Recognises the importance of visitors groups as an important tool to connect citizens with the work of Members; welcomes in that regard the increase of the ceilings and cost factors for the calculation of the financial contribution to sponsored visitors as from 1 January 2025; requests the Bureau to assess the impact of the revised rules related to visitors groups in relation to travel costs taking into account market fluctuation and to avoid indirect geographical discrimination for visitors; notes that about 15 % of the quota for visitors is historically not being used by Members; calls the Secretary-General to propose to the Bureau to make the unused quota available to interested Members; notes that the budget for visitors groups represents 22 % of the overall budget of the Directorate-General for Communication;

     

    24. Notes with concern the internal rules governing Members’ visitor groups, which result in 30 % of the up-front costs having to be incurred by Accredited Parliamentary Assistants (APAs) in some circumstances; stresses the impracticability of these rules and the financial burden this places on APAs; takes note of the answers provided by the Secretary-General to Parliament’s estimates of revenue and expenditure for the financial year 2024 in regard to the rationale of the two-step approach; understands the rationale but emphasises the growing challenges this presents for APAs, particularly with the continuous shift towards more stringent rules;

    25. Stresses the increasingly challenging communication landscape and the multiple ways in which political communication should be performed, including through engaging in various social media platforms and other media; underlines the need for the political groups to convey and communicate their message across all Member States as a key principle of a well-functioning European democracy;

    Infrastructure

     

    26. Acknowledges the new approach related to buildings, where, after a period of acquisition, Parliament has entered an era of consolidation of buildings, taking into account sustainability, accessibility and mobility of Members and staff;

     

    27. Takes note that EUR 4 million are included in the 2026 estimates for studies and the contractor’s preparatory works related to the SPAAK building renovation while the overall costs are estimated at EUR 36 million; notes therefore that EUR 32 million of costs related to the SPAAK building renovation are not included in the 2026 estimates; notes that the Secretary-General intends to cover these costs by a mopping-up transfer or the use of a loan; requests the Secretary-General to provide the Committee on Budgets with detailed information on a possible loan to cover these costs, in accordance with Article 272 (6) of the Financial Regulation, as soon as possible as well as the full planning of the works including the planning of the costs; insists that costs not directly linked to the renovation works should also be clearly listed and budgeted; notes that as of December 2024, the direct costs of the SPAAK project amount to EUR 14,12 million;

     

    28. Welcomes the pilot project of DG INLO aimed at removing legionella from the pipeline sanitary system of the Parliament and highlights that the only effective way to fight the further spreading of legionella is to bring the water temperature inside the pipelines to 55 degrees Celsius for a limited time;

     

    29. Notes that it is planned to invest EUR 11,45 million in Europa Experiences in 2026; takes note of the decision by the Bureau in November 2024 to revise the concept of Europa Experience and expects the revised concept to be more cost-efficient and more attractive to visitors; regrets that there are still no Europa Experiences in Bucharest, Riga, Madrid, Lisbon, Nicosia, Valletta or Vilnius; calls for the establishment of Europa Experiences in all Member States as soon as a revised concept has been established; recalls that Europa Experiences should allow citizens to have a better understanding of the functioning of the Union and learn about our shared values; reiterates therefore that Europa Experiences are an integral part of Parliament’s ongoing engagement with Union citizens;

     

    30. Takes note that no additional financing is needed for the opening of Parliament offices in Moldova and the Western Balkans, as these would be set up within EEAS premises; stresses the importance of Parliament’s presence in these countries as a sign of European solidarity and a sign of Parliament’s commitment to the accession process;

     

    31. Takes note of the early termination of the contract with the previous provider of the Crèche Wayenberg after a number of serious allegations against the contractor; welcomes the agreement with a new provider that foresees better working conditions of the nursery staff and better quality of the service for the children; acknowledges, however, that this results in an increase of the budget necessary for this purpose, but emphasises that decent working conditions for external staff should, where relevant, be a priority consideration in public procurement of Parliament as a matter of principle;

     

    32. Reiterates the need for high quality nursing rooms in Parliament’s premises and calls on the competent services to upgrade the current facilities in terms of equipment, space and accessibility in order to make them child-friendly; calls for an impact assessment on the need for a family room within the premises of the Brussels seat of the Parliament, for children of Members without permanent residence in Brussels, mirroring the arrangements in Strasbourg;

    Others

    33. Reiterates its request, adopted at Plenary level at several occasions, for the relevant bodies to reflect on a solution enabling Members to exercise their right to vote remotely, during benefiting from maternity or paternity leave, during a certified long-term illness, taking advantage of the lessons learnt during the pandemic on the technical aspects of this voting method;

    34. Reaffirms its call for the Secretary-General to emphasise the fundamental principle that all recruitment should be based on competency while also ensuring geographical balance among all Member States at every staff level; calls on Parliament to build its own outreach capacity, with the goal of attracting to competitions quality candidates that Parliament needs, in terms of profile, age, gender and nationality and especially from under-represented countries; underscores that achieving fair geographical representation is essential to fostering a genuinely European public service; notes that Parliament has consistently taken measures to support this objective, including the organisation of nationality-specific competitions while maintaining a strict merit-based selection approach;

    35. Believes that Parliament should lead by example concerning the rights of persons with disabilities, both as an employer and as a public institution; welcomes Parliament’s policy aiming to ensure the fully independent use of Parliament buildings by persons with disabilities and supports further measures and adaptations that will be necessary in this regard; notes that the budget foresees EUR 3,7 million for this purpose;

     

    36. Stresses the fact that Parliament having a single seat could reduce the financial and environmental costs; recalls that, according to the Treaty on European Union, Parliament is to have its seat in Strasbourg; notes that permanent changes would require a Treaty change for which unanimity is needed;

     

    37. Notes that mission expenses of Members and staff amount to EUR 116 million in Parliament’s budget; calls for Parliament’s bodies to reflect on mission practices and a revision of mission rules and practices with the overall aim of continuing to improve the nature of missions and further diminishing the associated financial and environmental costs; encourages Members to use low-carbon transport alternatives and advocates for responsible and measured use of best-value flights options, and the preference for train travel where it is a viable option;

     

    38. Takes note that Article 46(2) of the Implementing Measures for the Statute for Members of the European Parliament provides for the possibility to finance extra costs linked to the parliamentary assistance budgets with appropriations from their General Expenditure Allowance (GEA); calls on Parliament’s administration to take the necessary measures to enable Members who wish to do so to use their GEA to cover the cost of APA missions; highlights that such a measure would address increasing costs in Members’ offices while being budgetary neutral;

     

    39. Calls on the Bureau not to index the GEA and not to grant GEA to former Members, thus allowing for significant savings in the statutory costs;

     

    40. Takes note of the Conference of Presidents’ decisions of March 2025 on the Implementing provisions governing the missions outside the three places of work of the European Parliament; recalls that Parliament has consistently voted in the Plenary since 2018 to consider lifting the overall ban on APAs participating in official delegations and missions;

    41. Welcomes the work of the APA Committee which represents around 2 000 APAs, whose work is crucial to the smooth operation of the MEP’s daily activities; notes the earmarking of EUR 10 000 in order for the APA Committee to fulfil its role and ensure sufficient resources to effectively support and properly represent the APAs;

    42. Welcomes the exceptional 10 % increase in scholarships for each trainee in 2026, budgeted for EUR 1 million in 2026 to help them cope with growing housing costs in Brussels and Luxembourg;

    43. Expects that requests voted by the Plenary should be treated by the responsible bodies as a matter of high priority;

    44.  Adopts the estimates for the financial year 2026;

    45.  Instructs its President to forward this resolution and the estimates to the Council and the Commission.

     

     

    ANNEX: DRAFT ESTIMATES

     

     

    PART III – PRELIMINARY DRAFT ESTIMATES 2026

     

     

    1. REVENUE/EXPENDITURE

    2. ESTABLISHMENT PLAN

    3. NOMENCLATURE

     

     

    1. REVENUE/EXPENDITURE

     

     

     

     

     

    Contribution of the European Union to the financing of the expenditure of Parliament for the financial year 2026

     

     

     

    Heading

    Amount

     

     

    Expenditure

    2 636 241 620

    Resources

    265 378 397

    Contribution due

    2 370 863 223

     

     

     

    REVENUES

    Title – Chapter – Article – Post

    Heading

    2026 budget

    2025 budget

    Outturn 2024

    3

    ADMINISTRATIVE REVENUE

     

     

     

    3 0

    REVENUE FROM STAFF

     

     

     

    3 0 0

    Taxes and levies

     

     

     

    3 0 0 0

    Tax on the remunerations

    111 692 059

    105 869 539

    100 337 194

    3 0 0 1

    Special levies on remunerations

    17 507 648

    16 162 194

    14 891 422

     

    Article 3 0 0 – Subtotal

    129 199 707

    122 031 733

    115 228 616

    3 0 1

    Contributions to the pension scheme

     

     

     

    3 0 1 0

    Staff contributions to the pension scheme

    131 172 690

    121 092 129

    103 628 794

    3 0 1 1

    Transfer or purchase of pension rights by staff

    5 000 000

    6 000 000

    7 338 881

    3 0 1 2

    Contributions to the pension scheme by staff on leave

    5 000

    40 000

    0

    3 0 1 4

    Contributions by Members of the European Parliament

    p.m.

    p.m.

    0

     

    Article 3 0 1 – Subtotal

    136 177 690

    127 132 129

    110 967 675

     

    Chapter 3 0 — Total

    265 377 397

    249 163 862

    226 196 291

    3 1

    REVENUE LINKED TO PROPERTY

     

     

     

    3 1 0

    Sale of immovable property — Assigned revenue

    p.m.

    p.m.

    556 948

    3 1 1

    Sale of other property

    p.m.

    5 000

    9 203

    3 1 2

    Letting and subletting immovable property — Assigned revenue

    p.m.

    p.m.

    2 383 687

     

    Chapter 3 1 — Total

    p.m.

    5 000

    2 949 838

    3 2

    REVENUE FROM THE SUPPLY OF GOODS, SERVICES AND WORK — ASSIGNED REVENUE

     

     

     

    3 2 0

    Revenue from the supply of goods, services and work — Assigned revenue

    p.m.

    p.m.

    18 857 643

    3 2 1

    Refunds by other institutions or bodies of mission allowances — Assigned revenue

    p.m.

    p.m.

    0

    3 2 2

    Revenue from third parties in respect of goods, services or work — Assigned Revenue

    p.m.

    p.m.

    4 952 720

     

    Chapter 3 2 — Total

    p.m.

    p.m.

    23 810 363

    3 3

    OTHER ADMINISTRATIVE REVENUE

     

     

     

    3 3 0

    Repayment of amounts wrongly paid — Assigned Revenue

    p.m.

    p.m.

    22 491 561

    3 3 1

    Revenue for a specific purpose (income from foundations, subsidies, gifts and bequests) — Assigned Revenue

    p.m.

    p.m.

    0

    3 3 3

    Insurance payments received — Assigned Revenue

    p.m.

    p.m.

    34 996

    3 3 8

    Other revenue from administrative operations — Assigned Revenue

    p.m.

    p.m.

    0

    3 3 9

    Other revenue from administrative operations

    1 000

    1 000

    1 622 926

     

    Chapter 3 4 — Total

    1 000

    1 000

    24 149 483

     

    Title 3 — Total

    265 378 397

    249 169 862

    277 105 975

    4

    FINANCIAL REVENUE, DEFAULT INTEREST AND FINES

     

     

     

    4 0

    REVENUE FROM INVESTMENTS AND ACCOUNTS

     

     

     

    4 0 0

    Revenue from investments, loans granted and bank accounts

    p.m.

    p.m.

    4 411 026

     

    Chapter 4 0 — Total

    p.m.

    0

    4 411 026

     

    Title 4 — Total

    p.m.

    0

    4 411 026

    6

    REVENUE, CONTRIBUTIONS AND REFUNDS RELATED TO UNION POLICIES

     

     

     

    6 6

    OTHER CONTRIBUTIONS AND REFUNDS

     

     

     

    6 6 8

    Other contributions and refunds — Assigned revenue

    p.m.

    p.m.

    0

     

    Chapter 6 6 — Total

    p.m.

    p.m.

    0

     

    Title 6 — Total

    p.m.

    p.m.

    0

     

    GRAND TOTAL

    265 378 397

    249 169 862

    281 517 001

     

     

     

    EXPENDITURE

    General summary of appropriations (2026 and 2025) and outturn (2024)

    Title – Chapter – Article – Post

    Heading

    Appropriations 2026

    Appropriations 2025

    Outturn 2024

    1

    Persons working with the institution

     

     

     

    1 0

    Members of the institution

    250 087 000

    257 937 492

    249 427 210

    1 2

    Officials and temporary staff

    982 330 058

    914 759 154

    853 989 951

    1 4

    Other staff and external services

    259 041 175

    245 453 683

    206 535 274

    1 6

    Other expenditure relating to persons working with the institution

    29 619 939

    27 939 603

    24 937 797

     

    Title 1 — Total

    1 521 078 172

    1 446 089 932

    1 334 890 232

    2

    Buildings, furniture, equipment and miscellaneous operating expenditure

     

     

     

    2 0

    Buildings and associated costs

    250 475 000

    245 925 000

    252 616 845

    2 1

    Data processing, equipment and movable property

    232 008 000

    227 708 050

    253 569 292

    2 3

    Current administrative expenditure

    7 388 000

    7 386 000

    4 830 070

     

    Title 2 — Total

    489 871 000

    481 019 050

    511 016 207

    3

    Expenditure resulting from general functions carried out by the institution

     

     

     

    3 0

    Meetings and conferences

    37 728 429

    37 121 800

    27 628 546

    3 2

    Expertise and information: acquisition, archiving, production and dissemination

    154 530 519

    153 261 150

    153 271 532

     

    Title 3 — Total

    192 258 948

    190 382 950

    180 900 078

    4

    Expenditure resulting from special functions carried out by the institution

     

     

     

    4 0

    Expenditure relating to certain institutions and bodies

    146 800 000

    140 000 000

    125 403 172

    4 2

    Expenditure relating to parliamentary assistance

    279 165 340

    263 855 176

    222 263 343

    4 4

    Meetings and other activities of current and former members

    632 000

    620 000

    593 204

     

    Title 4 — Total

    426 597 340

    404 475 176

    348 259 719

    5

    The authority for european political parties and european political foundations and the committee of independent eminent persons

     

     

     

    5 0

    Expenditure of the authority for european political parties and european political foundations and the committee of independent eminent persons

    436 160

    428 000

    100 840

     

    Title 5 — Total

    436 160

    428 000

    100 840

    10

    Reserve

     

     

     

    10 0

    Provisional appropriation

    p.m.

    3 100 000

    0

    10 1

    Contingency reserve

    6 000 000

    7 200 000

    0

    10 3

    Enlargement reserve

    p.m.

    p.m.

    0

    10 4

    Reserve for information and communication policy

    p.m.

    p.m.

    0

    10 5

    Provisional appropriation for immovable property

    p.m.

    p.m.

    0

    10 6

    Reserve for priority projects under development

    p.m.

    p.m.

    0

    10 8

    Emas reserve

    p.m.

    p.m.

    0

     

    Title 10 — Total

    6 000 000

    10 300 000

    0

     

    GRAND TOTAL

    2 636 241 620

    2 532 695 108

    2 375 167 076

     

     

    Revenue — REVENUE

    Title 3 — ADMINISTRATIVE REVENUE

    Chapter 3 0 — REVENUE FROM STAFF

    Article 3 0 0 — Taxes and levies

    Item 3 0 0 0 — Tax on the remunerations

    Figures

    2026 estimate

    2025 estimate

    2024 out-turn

    111 692 059

    105 869 539

    100 337 194,29

    Legal basis

    Protocol on the privileges and immunities of the European Union, and in particular Article 12 thereof.

    Regulation (EEC, Euratom, ECSC) No 260/68 of the Council of 29 February 1968 laying down the conditions and procedure for applying the tax for the benefit of the European Communities (OJ L 56, 4.3.1968, p. 8, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/1968/260/oj).

    Item 3 0 0 1 — Special levies on remunerations

    Figures

    2026 estimate

    2025 estimate

    2024 out-turn

    17 507 648

    16 162 194

    14 891 421,72

    Legal basis

    Staff Regulations of Officials of the European Union, and in particular Article 66a thereof.

    Article 3 0 1 — Contributions to the pension scheme

    Item 3 0 1 0 — Staff contributions to the pension scheme

    Figures

    2026 estimate

    2025 estimate

    2024 out-turn

    131 172 690

    121 092 129

    103 628 793,79

    Legal basis

    Staff Regulations of Officials of the European Union, and in particular Article 83(2) thereof.

    Item 3 0 1 1 — Transfer or purchase of pension rights by staff

    Figures

    2026 estimate

    2025 estimate

    2024 out-turn

    5 000 000

    6 000 000

    7 338 881,09

    Legal basis

    Staff Regulations of Officials of the European Union, and in particular Article 4, Article 11(2) and (3) and Article 48 of Annex VIII thereto.

    Item 3 0 1 2 — Contributions to the pension scheme by staff on leave

    Figures

    2026 estimate

    2025 estimate

    2024 out-turn

    5 000

    40 000

    0,—

    Item 3 0 1 4 — Contributions by Members of the European Parliament

    Figures

    2026 estimate

    2025 estimate

    2024 out-turn

    p.m.

    p.m.

    0,—

    Legal basis

    Rules governing the payment of expenses and allowances to Members of the European Parliament, and in particular Annex III thereto.

    Chapter 3 1 — REVENUE LINKED TO PROPERTY

    Article 3 1 0 — Sale of immovable property — Assigned revenue

    Figures

    2026 estimate

    2025 estimate

    2024 out-turn

    p.m.

    p.m.

    556 948,00

    Remarks

    This article is intended to record revenue from the sale of immovable property belonging to the institution.

    In accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation, this revenue is to be considered as assigned revenue and gives rise to the entry of additional appropriations in the headings which bore the initial expenditure giving rise to the corresponding revenue.

    Article 3 1 1 — Sale of other property

    Figures

    2026 estimate

    2025 estimate

    2024 out-turn

    p.m.

    5 000

    9 203,22

    Remarks

    This article is intended to record revenue accruing from the sale or part-exchange of other property belonging to the institution.

    Article 3 1 2 — Letting and subletting immovable property — Assigned revenue

    Figures

    2026 estimate

    2025 estimate

    2024 out-turn

    p.m.

    p.m.

    2 383 686,62

    Remarks

    In accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation, this revenue is to be considered as assigned revenue and gives rise to the entry of additional appropriations in the headings which bore the initial expenditure giving rise to the corresponding revenue.

    Details of expenditure and revenue resulting from loans or rents or the provision of services under this budget item shall be set out in an annex to this budget.

    Chapter 3 2 — REVENUE FROM THE SUPPLY OF GOODS, SERVICES AND WORK — ASSIGNED REVENUE

    Article 3 2 0 — Revenue from the supply of goods, services and work — Assigned revenue

    Item 3 2 0 2 — Revenue from the supply of goods, services and work for other Union institutions, bodies, offices and agencies — Assigned revenue

    Figures

    2026 estimate

    2025 estimate

    2024 out-turn

    p.m.

    p.m.

    18 857 643,13

    Remarks

    In accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation, this revenue is to be considered as assigned revenue and gives rise to the entry of additional appropriations in the headings which bore the initial expenditure giving rise to the corresponding revenue.

    This item is intended to record revenue from the repayment of welfare expenditure incurred on behalf of another institution.

    Article 3 2 1 — Refunds by other institutions or bodies of mission allowances  — Assigned revenue

    Figures

    2026 estimate

    2025 estimate

    2024 out-turn

    p.m.

    p.m.

    0,—

    Remarks

    In accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation, this revenue is to be considered as assigned revenue and gives rise to the entry of additional appropriations in the headings which bore the initial expenditure giving rise to the corresponding revenue.

    This article is intended to record revenue from the repayment of welfare expenditure incurred on behalf of another institution.

    Article 3 2 2 — Revenue from third parties in respect of goods, services or work  — Assigned revenue

    Figures

    2026 estimate

    2025 estimate

    2024 out-turn

    p.m.

    p.m.

    4 952 719,42

    Remarks

    In accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation, this revenue is to be considered as assigned revenue and gives rise to the entry of additional appropriations in the headings which bore the initial expenditure giving rise to the corresponding revenue.

    Chapter 3 3 — OTHER ADMINISTRATIVE REVENUE

    Article 3 3 0 — Repayment of amounts wrongly paid — Assigned revenue

    Figures

    2026 estimate

    2025 estimate

    2024 out-turn

    p.m.

    p.m.

    22 491 561,95

    Remarks

    In accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation, this revenue is to be considered as assigned revenue and gives rise to the entry of additional appropriations in the headings which bore the initial expenditure giving rise to the corresponding revenue.

    Article 3 3 1 — Revenue for a specific purpose (income from foundations, subsidies, gifts and bequests) — Assigned revenue

    Figures

    2026 estimate

    2025 estimate

    2024 out-turn

    p.m.

    p.m.

    0,—

    Remarks

    In accordance with Article 21(2) of the Financial Regulation, this revenue is to be considered as assigned revenue and gives rise to the entry of additional appropriations in the headings which bore the initial expenditure giving rise to the corresponding revenue.

    Article 3 3 3 — Insurance payments received — Assigned revenue

    Figures

    2026 estimate

    2025 estimate

    2024 out-turn

    p.m.

    p.m.

    34 995,58

    Remarks

    In accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation, this revenue is to be considered as assigned revenue and gives rise to the entry of additional appropriations in the headings which bore the initial expenditure giving rise to the corresponding revenue.

    This article is also intended to include reimbursement by insurance companies of the salaries of officials involved in accidents.

    Article 3 3 8 — Other revenue from administrative operations — Assigned revenue

    Figures

    2026 estimate

    2025 estimate

    2024 out-turn

    p.m.

    p.m.

    0,—

    Remarks

    This article is intended to record other contributions and refunds in connection with the administrative operation of the institution.

    In accordance with Article 21 of the Financial Regulation, this revenue is to be considered as assigned revenue and gives rise to the entry of additional appropriations against the headings which bore the initial expenditure giving rise to the corresponding revenue.

    Article 3 3 9 — Other revenue from administrative operations

    Figures

    2026 estimate

    2025 estimate

    2024 out-turn

    1 000

    1 000

    1 622 925,87

    Remarks

    This article is intended to record other revenue from administrative operations.

    Details of expenditure and revenue resulting from loans or rents or the provision of services under this article shall be set out in an annex to this budget.

    Title 4 — FINANCIAL REVENUE, DEFAULT INTEREST AND FINES

    Chapter 4 0 — REVENUE FROM INVESTMENTS AND ACCOUNTS

    Article 4 0 0 — Revenue from investments, loans granted and bank accounts

    Figures

    2026 estimate

    2025 estimate

    2024 out-turn

    p.m.

    p.m.

    4 411 025,89

    Remarks

    This article is intended to record revenue from investments, loans granted and bank and other interest on the institution’s accounts.

    Title 6 — REVENUE, CONTRIBUTIONS AND REFUNDS RELATED TO UNION POLICIES

    Chapter 6 6 — OTHER CONTRIBUTIONS AND REFUNDS

    Article 6 6 8 — Other contributions and refunds — Assigned revenue

    Figures

    2026 estimate

    2025 estimate

    2024 out-turn

    p.m.

    p.m.

    0,—

    Remarks

    This article is intended to record, in accordance with Article 21 of the Financial Regulation, any revenue not provided for in other parts of Title 6 which is used to provide additional appropriations to finance expenditure to which that revenue is assigned.

    Expenditure — EXPENDITURE

    Title 1 — PERSONS WORKING WITH THE INSTITUTION

    Chapter 1 0 — MEMBERS OF THE INSTITUTION

    Article 1 0 0 — Salaries and allowances

    Item 1 0 0 0 — Salaries

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    100 920 000

    96 171 430

    91 951 742,92

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover the salary provided for by the Statute for Members.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 5 000.

    Legal basis

    Statute for Members of the European Parliament, and in particular Articles 9 and 10 thereof.

    Implementing measures for the Statute for Members of the European Parliament, and in particular Articles 1 and 2 thereof.

    Item 1 0 0 4 — Ordinary travel expenses

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    79 160 000

    78 700 000

    71 950 000,00

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover reimbursement of travel and subsistence expenses in connection with travelling to and from the places of work and with other duty travel.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 25 000.

    Legal basis

    Statute for Members of the European Parliament, and in particular Article 20 thereof.

    Implementing measures for the Statute for Members of the European Parliament, and in particular Articles 10 to 21 and 24 thereof.

    Item 1 0 0 5 — Other travel expenses

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    5 260 000

    4 800 000

    5 100 000,00

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover reimbursement of additional travel expenses and travel expenses incurred in the Member State of election.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 1 000.

    Legal basis

    Statute for Members of the European Parliament, and in particular Article 20 thereof.

    Implementing measures for the Statute for Members of the European Parliament, and in particular Articles 22 and 23 thereof.

    Item 1 0 0 6 — General expenditure allowance

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    44 410 000

    44 100 000

    45 734 819,18

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover, in accordance with the Implementing measures for the Statute for Members of the European Parliament, expenses resulting from the parliamentary activities of Members.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 90 000.

    Legal basis

    Statute for Members of the European Parliament, and in particular Article 20 thereof.

    Implementing measures for the Statute for Members of the European Parliament, and in particular Articles 43 to 47 thereof.

    Item 1 0 0 7 — Allowances for performance of duties

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    219 000

    212 000

    205 852,17

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover the flat-rate subsistence and representation allowances in connection with the duties of the President of the European Parliament.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 100.

    Legal basis

    Statute for Members of the European Parliament, and in particular Article 20 thereof.

    Decision of the Bureau of the European Parliament of 17 June 2009.

    Article 1 0 1 — Accident and sickness insurance and other welfare measures

    Item 1 0 1 0 — Accident and sickness insurance and other social security charges

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    3 142 000

    3 393 000

    3 083 137,39

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover accident insurance and reimbursement of medical expenses for Members and loss and theft of Members’ personal effects.

    It is also intended to cover the provision of insurance cover and assistance during a trip funded by the European Parliament or a political group, as a result of a serious illness, an accident or an unforeseen event that prevents them from continuing their journey. Such assistance involves organising the Member’s repatriation and defraying the related costs.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 200 000.

    Legal basis

    Statute for Members of the European Parliament, and in particular Articles 18 and 19 thereof.

    Implementing measures for the Statute for Members of the European Parliament, in particular Articles 3 to 9 and 25 thereof.

    Common rules on the insurance of officials of the European Union against the risk of accident and of occupational disease.

    Joint rules on sickness insurance for officials of the European Communities.

    Commission Decision laying down general implementing provisions for the reimbursement of medical expenses.

    Item 1 0 1 2 — Specific measures to assist disabled Members

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    700 000

    1 000 000

    550 000,00

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover certain expenditure required to provide assistance for a seriously disabled Member.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 5 000.

    Legal basis

    Implementing measures for the Statute for Members of the European Parliament, and in particular Article 26 thereof.

    Article 1 0 2 — Transitional allowances

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    2 287 000

    15 544 645

    18 921 436,05

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover the transitional allowance after the end of a Member’s term of office.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 5 000.

    Legal basis

    Statute for Members of the European Parliament, and in particular Article 13 thereof.

    Implementing measures for the Statute for Members of the European Parliament, and in particular Articles 48 to 51 and 84 thereof.

    Article 1 0 3 — Pensions

    Item 1 0 3 0 — Retirement pensions (PEAM)

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    11 077 000

    11 144 000

    9 522 406,74

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover the payment of an old-age pension after the cessation of a Member’s term of office.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 150 000.

    Legal basis

    Implementing measures for the Statute for Members of the European Parliament, and in particular Article 82 thereof, and Annex III to the Rules on Payment of Expenses and Allowances to Members of the European Parliament (‘PEAM rules’).

    Item 1 0 3 1 — Invalidity pensions (PEAM)

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    102 000

    96 138

    88 257,11

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover the payment of a pension to Members who become incapacitated during their term of office.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 5 000.

    Legal basis

    Implementing measures for the Statute for Members of the European Parliament, and in particular Article 82 thereof, and Annex II to the Rules on Payment of Expenses and Allowances to Members of the European Parliament (‘PEAM rules’).

    Item 1 0 3 2 — Survivors’ pensions (PEAM)

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    2 160 000

    2 126 279

    1 919 559,71

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover the payment of a survivor’s or orphan’s pension in the event of the death of a Member or of a former Member.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 15 000.

    Legal basis

    Implementing measures for the Statute for Members of the European Parliament, and in particular Article 82 thereof, and Annex I to the Rules on Payment of Expenses and Allowances to Members of the European Parliament (‘PEAM rules’).

    Item 1 0 3 3 — Optional pension scheme for Members

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    p.m.

    p.m.

    0,—

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover the institution’s contribution to the additional voluntary pension scheme for Members.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 500.

    Legal basis

    Statute for Members of the European Parliament, and in particular Article 27 thereof.

    Implementing measures for the Statute for Members of the European Parliament, and in particular Article 83 thereof, and Annex VII to the Rules on Payment of Expenses and Allowances to Members of the European Parliament (‘PEAM rules’).

    Article 1 0 5 — Language and computer courses

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    650 000

    650 000

    400 000,00

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover the cost of language and computer courses for Members.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 100.

    Legal basis

    Implementing measures for the Statute for Members of the European Parliament, and in particular Article 42 thereof.

    Decision of the Bureau of the European Parliament of 23 October 2017 on language and computer courses for Members.

    Chapter 1 2 — OFFICIALS AND TEMPORARY STAFF

    Article 1 2 0 — Remuneration and other entitlements

    Item 1 2 0 0 — Remuneration and allowances

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

     

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    1 2 0 0

    973 382 485

    906 471 880

    846 335 205,79

    Reserves(10 0)

     

    3 100 000

     

    Total

    973 382 485

    909 571 880

    846 335 205,79

    Remarks

    This appropriation is mainly intended to cover, for officials and temporary staff holding a post provided for in the establishment plan:

    — salaries, allowances and other payments related to salaries,

    — insurance against sickness, accident and occupational disease and other social security contributions,

    — flat-rate overtime allowances,

    — miscellaneous allowances and grants,

    — payment of travel expenses for officials or temporary staff, their spouses and dependants from their place of employment to their place of origin,

    — the impact of salary weightings applicable to remuneration and to the part of emoluments transferred to a country other than the country of employment,

    — unemployment insurance for temporary staff and payments made by the institution to allow temporary staff to constitute or maintain pension rights in their country of origin.

    This appropriation is also intended to cover the insurance premiums in respect of sports accidents for users of the European Parliament’s sports centres in Brussels, in Luxembourg and in Strasbourg.

    This appropriation includes an envelope of EUR 633 245 related to the staff of the Authority for European political parties and European political foundations.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 450 000.

    Legal basis

    Staff Regulations of Officials of the European Union.

    Conditions of Employment of Other Servants of the European Union.

    Item 1 2 0 2 — Paid overtime

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    57 573

    52 764

    55 000,00

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover the payment of overtime under the conditions set out in the legal basis.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 100.

    Legal basis

    Staff Regulations of Officials of the European Union, and in particular Article 56 thereof and Annex VI thereto.

    Conditions of Employment of Other Servants of the European Union.

    Item 1 2 0 4 — Entitlements in connection with entering the service, transfer and leaving the service

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    4 100 000

    3 779 912

    3 700 000,00

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover:

    — travel expenses due to officials and temporary staff (including their families) entering or leaving the service or being transferred to another place of employment,

    — installation and resettlement allowances and removal expenses due to officials and temporary staff obliged to change their place of residence on taking up duty, on transfer to a new place of employment and on finally leaving the institution and resettling elsewhere,

    — daily subsistence allowance for officials and temporary staff who furnish evidence that they must change their place of residence on taking up duty or transferring to a new place of employment,

    — the compensation for a probationary official who is dismissed because his or her work is obviously inadequate,

    — compensation for a member of the temporary staff whose contract is terminated by the institution,

    — the difference between the contributions paid by contract staff to a Member State pension scheme and those payable to the Union scheme in the event of reclassification of a contract.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 100.

    Legal basis

    Staff Regulations of Officials of the European Union.

    Conditions of Employment of Other Servants of the European Union.

    Article 1 2 2 — Allowances upon early termination of service

    Item 1 2 2 0 — Allowances for staff retired or placed on leave in the interests of the service

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    4 790 000

    4 454 598

    3 899 745,48

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover the allowances payable:

    — to officials assigned non-active status in connection with action to reduce the number of posts in the institution,

    — to officials placed on leave to meet organisational needs associated with the acquisition of new skills within the institution,

    — to officials and temporary management staff for political groups holding posts in grades AD 16 and AD 15 retired in the interests of the service.

    It also covers the employer’s contribution towards sickness insurance and the impact of the weightings applicable to these allowances (except for beneficiaries of Article 42c of the Staff Regulations, who are not entitled to a weighting).

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 100.

    Legal basis

    Staff Regulations of Officials of the European Union, and in particular Articles 41, 42c and 50 thereof and Annex IV thereto, and Article 48a of the Conditions of Employment of Other Servants of the European Union.

    Item 1 2 2 2 — Allowances for staff whose service is terminated and special retirement scheme for officials and temporary staff

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    p.m.

    p.m.

    0,—

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover:

    — the allowances payable under the Staff Regulations or Council Regulations (EC, Euratom, ECSC) No 2689/95 and (EC, Euratom) No 1748/2002,

    — the employer’s contributions towards sickness insurance for the recipients of the allowances,

    — the impact of the weightings applicable to the various allowances.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 100.

    Legal basis

    Staff Regulations of Officials of the European Union, and in particular Articles 64 and 72 thereof.

    Council Regulation (EC, Euratom, ECSC) No 2689/95 of 17 November 1995 introducing special measures to terminate the service of temporary staff of the European Communities as a result of the accession of Austria, Finland and Sweden (OJ L 280, 23.11.1995, p. 4, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/1995/2689/oj).

    Council Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 1748/2002 of 30 September 2002 introducing, in the context of the modernisation of the institution, special measures to terminate the service of Officials of the European Communities appointed to an established post in the European Parliament and temporary staff working in the Political Groups of the European Parliament (OJ L 264, 2.10.2002, p. 9, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2002/1748/oj).

    Chapter 1 4 — OTHER STAFF AND EXTERNAL SERVICES

    Article 1 4 0 — Other staff and external persons

    Item 1 4 0 0 — Other staff — Secretariat and political groups

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    100 945 810

    94 484 929

    81 664 730,14

    Remarks

    This appropriation is mainly intended to cover the following expenditure:

    — the remuneration, including allocations and allowances, of other staff, including contract staff and special advisers (within the meaning of the Conditions of Employment of Other Servants of the European Union), employer’s contributions to the various social security schemes, the bulk of which are paid in to the Union institutions’ own scheme, and the impact of salary weightings applicable to the remuneration of this staff,

    — the employment of temporary agency staff.

    This appropriation is not to cover expenditure on:

    — other staff within the Directorate-General for Security and Safety who perform duties relating to the safety of persons and property, information security and risk assessment,

    — other staff working as drivers in the Secretariat.

    Part of this appropriation is to be used for the recruitment of persons with disabilities as contract staff members, in accordance with the Decision of the Bureau of the European Parliament of 7 and 9 July 2008.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 4 100 000.

    This appropriation includes an envelope of EUR 421 487 related to the staff of the Authority for European political parties and European political foundations.

    Legal basis

    Conditions of Employment of Other Servants of the European Union (Titles IV, V and VI).

    General implementing provisions governing competitions and selection procedures, recruitment and the grading of officials and other servants of the European Parliament (decision of the Secretary-General of the European Parliament of 17 October 2014).

    Item 1 4 0 1 — Other staff — Security

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    57 780 573

    52 771 404

    46 021 651,49

    Remarks

    This appropriation is mainly intended to cover the expenditure on other staff within the Directorate-General for Security and Safety who perform duties relating to the safety of persons and property, information security and risk assessment.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 500 000.

    Legal basis

    Conditions of Employment of Other Servants of the European Union (Title IV).

    General implementing provisions governing competitions and selection procedures, recruitment and the grading of officials and other servants of the European Parliament (decision of the Secretary-General of the European Parliament of 17 October 2014).

    Item 1 4 0 2 — Other staff — Drivers in the Secretariat

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    10 316 589

    9 725 704

    9 027 760,87

    Remarks

    This appropriation is mainly intended to cover the expenditure on other staff working as drivers in the Secretariat or coordinating the work of those drivers.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 100.

    Legal basis

    Conditions of Employment of Other Servants of the European Union (Title IV).

    General implementing provisions governing competitions and selection procedures, recruitment and the grading of officials and other servants of the European Parliament (decision of the Secretary-General of the European Parliament of 17 October 2014).

    Item 1 4 0 4 — Traineeships, seconded national experts, exchanges of officials and study visits

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    15 912 203

    13 929 850

    11 341 160,19

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover:

    — emoluments for graduate trainees (scholarships), including any household allowances,

    — travel expenses of trainees,

    — contribution to the cost of lunches of trainees at the European Parliament’s canteens,

    — additional costs directly related to a trainee’s impairment,

    — sickness and accident insurance for trainees,

    — costs connected with the holding of information or training sessions for trainees,

    — payment of a grant to the Robert Schuman Trainees’ Committee,

    — communication and outreach actions and the financing of a trainee alumni network,

    — expenditure arising from movements between the European Parliament and the civil service in the Member States and candidate countries or international organisations specified in the rules,

    — expenditure arising from the secondment of national experts to the European Parliament, including allowances and travel expenses,

    — accident insurance for national experts on secondment,

    — allowances for study visits and study grants,

    — the organisation of training schemes for conference interpreters and translators, inter alia in cooperation with schools of interpreting and universities providing training in translation, as well as grants for the training and further training of interpreters and translators, purchase of teaching materials, and associated costs,

    — costs related to creating distance-learning opportunities for conference interpreting agents, like e-courses on subjects related to areas of parliamentary activity or professional skills or the recruitment of trainers for courses specific to conference interpreting agents.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 5 000.

    Legal basis

    Decision of the Bureau of the European Parliament of 7 March 2005 on the rules governing the attachment of European Parliament officials and temporary staff of the political groups to national public authorities, bodies treated as such public authorities and international organisations.

    Decision of the Secretary-General of the European Parliament of 29 April 2021 on the internal rules governing traineeships in the Secretariat of the European Parliament.

    Decision of the Bureau of the European Parliament of 22 November 2021 on the rules governing the secondment of national experts to the European Parliament.

    Item 1 4 0 5 — Expenditure on interpretation

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    64 850 000

    64 841 796

    55 479 971,94

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover the following expenditure:

    — the fees and related allowances, social security contributions, travel expenses and other expenses of contract conference interpreters recruited by the European Parliament to service meetings organised by the European Parliament to meet its own needs or those of other institutions when the necessary services cannot be provided by European Parliament interpreters (officials and temporary staff),

    — expenditure on conference agencies, technicians, welcoming staff and administrators used to service the above meetings where they cannot be serviced by officials, temporary staff or other European Parliament staff,

    — expenditure for contracts in interpreting services concluded by the DG LINC for providing interpretation, including remote simultaneous interpretation, for non-core meeting of the European Parliament and/or requested by other institutions and entities authorised to hold meetings on European Parliament premises,

    — expenses in connection with services provided to the European Parliament by interpreters who are staff members of regional, national or international institutions,

    — expenses in connection with interpretation-related activities, in particular preparations for meetings and interpreter training and selection,

    — expenses paid for administering payments to conference interpreters,

    — expenses in connection with preservation and development of external interpretation capacity or availability schemes.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 2 600 000.

    Legal basis

    Staff Regulations of Officials of the European Union.

    Conditions of Employment of Other Servants of the European Union.

    Agreement on working conditions and the pecuniary regime for auxiliary conference interpreters (ACIs) (and the implementing rules therefor), as established on 28 July 1999, amended on 13 October 2004 and revised on 31 July 2008.

    Item 1 4 0 6 — Observers

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    p.m.

    p.m.

    0,—

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover the payment of expenses relating to observers, in accordance with Rule 13 of the European Parliament’s Rules of Procedure.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 100.

    Article 1 4 2 — External translation services

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    9 236 000

    9 700 000

    3 000 000,00

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover the translation, editing, typing, coding and technical assistance work sent to outside suppliers.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 50 000.

    Chapter 1 6 — OTHER EXPENDITURE RELATING TO PERSONS WORKING WITH THE INSTITUTION

    Article 1 6 1 — Expenditure relating to staff management

    Item 1 6 1 0 — Expenditure on recruitment

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    496 600

    371 520

    152 378,85

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover:

    — expenditure on organising the competitions provided for in Article 3 of Decision 2002/621/EC and travel and subsistence expenses for applicants invited to tests as part of a competition or selection procedure, or called for recruitment interviews or to pre-employment medical examinations,

    — the costs of organising and promoting competitions and procedures for selecting staff and raising awareness of employment opportunities in the European Parliament.

    In cases duly justified by operational needs, the institution may use this appropriation to organise its own competitions and selection procedures.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 100.

    Legal basis

    Staff Regulations of Officials of the European Union, and in particular Articles 27 to 31 and Article 33 thereof and Annex III thereto.

    Decision 2002/620/EC of the European Parliament, the Council, the Commission, the Court of Justice, the Court of Auditors, the Economic and Social Committee, the Committee of the Regions and the European Ombudsman of 25 July 2002 establishing a European Communities Personnel Selection Office (OJ L 197, 26.7.2002, p. 53, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec/2002/620/oj) and Decision 2002/621/EC of the Secretaries-General of the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission, the Registrar of the Court of Justice, the Secretaries-General of the Court of Auditors, the Economic and Social Committee, the Committee of the Regions, and the Representative of the European Ombudsman of 25 July 2002 on the organisation and operation of the European Communities Personnel Selection Office (OJ L 197, 26.7.2002, p. 56, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec/2002/621/oj).

    Item 1 6 1 2 — Learning and development

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    8 958 400

    8 987 950

    8 490 662,44

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover expenditure on training for improving staff skills and the performance and efficiency of the institution, e.g. via language courses for the official working languages.

    It is also intended to cover expenditure on other training courses for Members.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 1 700.

    Legal basis

    Staff Regulations of Officials of the European Union, and in particular Article 24a thereof.

    Conditions of Employment of Other Servants of the European Union.

    Article 1 6 3 — Measures to assist the institution’s staff

    Item 1 6 3 0 — Social welfare

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    350 000

    328 350

    135 748,07

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover:

    — action taken in respect of officials and other servants in particularly difficult situations,

    — the financing of a grant for the Staff Committee, the APA Committee, and incidental expenditure in the Medical Services. Contributions or defrayal of expenses by the Staff Committee for participants in welfare activities will be aimed at financing activities that have a social, cultural or linguistic dimension, but there will be no subsidies for individual staff members or households,

    — other institutional and interinstitutional welfare measures for officials, other servants and retired staff,

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 70 000.

    Legal basis

    Staff Regulations of Officials of the European Union, and in particular Article 9(3), third subparagraph, and Article 76 thereof.

    Item 1 6 3 1 — Mobility

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    2 110 000

    2 110 000

    2 340 000,00

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover expenditure relating to mobility at the various places of work.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 5 000.

    Item 1 6 3 2 — Social contacts between members of staff and other social measures

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    290 200

    285 000

    265 819,34

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to encourage and provide financial backing for schemes to promote social contact between staff of different nationalities, for example subsidies for staff clubs, sports associations and cultural societies, and to make a contribution to the cost of a permanent centre (for cultural and sports activities, other hobbies, a restaurant) for use during leisure time.

    It also covers financial support for interinstitutional social activities.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 600 000.

    Article 1 6 5 — Activities relating to all persons working with the institution

    Item 1 6 5 0 — Health, Safety and Inclusion

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    3 615 219

    4 088 866

    3 327 922,83

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover the operating costs of the Medical Services, the Medical Leave Service, the Medical Preparedness and Crisis Management Unit, the Prevention and Well-Being at Work Unit and the Equality Inclusion and Diversity Unit in Brussels, Luxembourg and Strasbourg.

    In the medical field, this includes in particular:

    — medical check-ups, the purchase of materials and pharmaceutical products,

    — expenditure on medical examinations, particularly in an occupational-medicine context, on pre-recruitment medical examinations, on periodic examinations and health screening in connection with security-related, safety-critical and specific-risk posts,

    — medical expert reports and on ergonomic measures,

    — expenditure arising from the operation of the Invalidity Committee and in connection with adjudications and expert opinions,

    — expenditure on services provided by outside medical and paramedical specialists deemed necessary by the medical officers.

    It also covers expenditure involving the purchase of certain work tools deemed necessary on medical grounds, together with expenditure on medical or paramedical service providers or personnel on short-term stand-in assignment.

    In relation to disability management and support, this appropriation is intended to cover as part of an interinstitutional policy to assist persons with a disability in the following categories:

    — officials and other agents in active employment,

    — spouses of officials and other agents in active employment,

    — dependent children within the meaning of the Staff Regulations,

    — orphans who have lost both parents and who are in receipt of an orphan’s pension,

    the reimbursement, to the extent permitted by the budget and after national entitlements in the country of residence or the country of origin have been exhausted, of expenses (other than medical expenses) recognised as necessary, resulting from the disability, supported by documentary evidence and not covered by the Joint Sickness Insurance Scheme,

    — other institutional and interinstitutional welfare measures for officials, other servants and retired staff,

    — the financing of specific reasonable accommodation measures or expenditure on medical analyses and welfare assessments for officials and other servants with disabilities during recruitment procedures or requiring accommodation measures as a result of events during their career, and trainees with disabilities during selection procedures, in application of Article 1d of the Staff Regulations, in particular personal assistance at the workplace, including transport, or during missions.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 100.

    Legal basis

    Staff Regulations of Officials of the European Union, and in particular Article 1d, Article 1e(2), Article 33, Article 59, and Article 76 thereof and Article 8 of Annex II thereto. Council Directive 89/391/EEC of June 12, 1989 also lays ground on provisions in relation to workplace risk management.

    Item 1 6 5 2 — Expenditure on catering

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    800 000

    1 360 000

    736 268,23

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover expenditure on catering for official high-level events and meetings and certain social measures agreed by the European Parliament.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 100.

    Item 1 6 5 4 — Childcare facilities

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    11 751 520

    9 237 967

    8 651 259,44

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover the European Parliament’s contribution to all the organisational expenditure and expenditure on services for the internal childcare facilities and outside childcare facilities with which an agreement has been concluded.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 3 300 000.

    Item 1 6 5 5 — European Parliament contribution for accredited Type II European Schools

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    1 248 000

    1 169 950

    837 737,52

    Remarks

    Implementation of Commission Decision C(2013) 4886 of 1 August 2013 on the putting into effect of the EU contribution paid on a pro-rata basis to schools accredited by the Board of Governors of the European Schools according to the number of children of EU staff enrolled, replacing Commission Decision C(2009) 7719 of 14 October 2009 as amended by Commission Decision C(2010) 7993 of 8 December 2010 (OJ C 222, 2.8.2013, p. 8).

    This appropriation is intended to cover the European Parliament’s contribution for Type II European Schools accredited by the Board of Governors of the European Schools or the reimbursement of the contribution paid by the Commission on behalf of the European Parliament for Type II European Schools accredited by the Board of Governors of the European Schools. It covers costs relating to children of European Parliament staff coming under the Staff Regulations who are enrolled in such schools.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 100.

    Title 2 — BUILDINGS, FURNITURE, EQUIPMENT AND MISCELLANEOUS OPERATING EXPENDITURE

    Remarks

    Since risk cover has been revoked by insurance companies, the risk of industrial conflicts and terrorist attacks for the European Parliament buildings needs to be covered through the general budget of the Union.

    The appropriations of this title accordingly cover all expenses in connection with damage resulting from industrial conflicts and terrorist attacks.

    Chapter 2 0 — Buildings and associated costs

    Article 2 0 0 — Buildings

    Item 2 0 0 0 — Rent

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    31 110 000

    26 900 000

    29 318 124,71

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover rent for the buildings or parts of buildings occupied by the European Parliament.

    It also covers property tax. The rentals are calculated over 12 months on the basis of existing leases or leases in preparation, which normally provide for cost of living or construction cost index-linking.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 3 000 000.

    Financial contributions from Member States or their public agencies or entities in the form of financing or repayment of costs and of associated charges relating to the purchase or use of land, buildings, as well as of charges in relation to buildings and facilities of the institution, shall be considered as external assigned revenue within the meaning of Article 21(2) of the Financial Regulation.

    Item 2 0 0 1 — Lease payments

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    751 000

    700 000

    21 420 000,00

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover the annual lease payments for buildings or parts of buildings under existing leases or leases in preparation.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 50 000.

    Financial contributions from Member States or their public agencies or entities in the form of financing or repayment of costs and of associated charges relating to the purchase or use of land, buildings, as well as of charges in relation to buildings and facilities of the institution, shall be considered as external assigned revenue within the meaning of Article 21(2) of the Financial Regulation.

    Item 2 0 0 3 — Acquisition of immovable property

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    340 000

    p.m.

    0,—

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover the acquisition of immovable property. Subsidies for land and its servicing will be dealt with in accordance with the Financial Regulation.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 810 000.

    Financial contributions from Member States or their public agencies or entities in the form of financing or repayment of costs and of associated charges relating to the purchase or use of land, buildings, as well as of charges in relation to buildings and facilities of the institution, shall be considered as external assigned revenue within the meaning of Article 21(2) of the Financial Regulation.

    Item 2 0 0 7 — Construction of buildings and fitting-out of premises

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    74 357 000

    78 010 000

    75 581 353,02

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover:

    — building construction costs (works, consultants’ fees, initial fitting-out work and supplies to make buildings operational, and all related costs),

    — fitting-out costs and related expenditure, and in particular architects’ or engineers’ fees.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 472 000.

    Financial contributions from Member States or their public agencies or entities in the form of financing or repayment of costs and of associated charges relating to the purchase or use of land, buildings, as well as of charges in relation to buildings and facilities of the institution, shall be considered as external assigned revenue within the meaning of Article 21(2) of the Financial Regulation.

    Item 2 0 0 8 — Other specific property management arrangements

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    8 190 000

    6 665 000

    4 227 493,47

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover expenditure on property management not specifically provided for in the other articles in this Chapter, i.e.:

    — waste management and treatment,

    — mandatory inspections, quality checks, expert opinions, audits, compliance monitoring, etc.,

    — technical library,

    — management support (building helpdesk),

    — taking care of building drawings and information media,

    — other expenditure.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 268 000.

    Item 2 0 0 9 — Construction and fitting out of Buildings: Idea Lab

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    p.m.

    p.m.

    0,—

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover investments in innovative building solutions and pilot projects, namely:

    — building construction costs (works, consultants’ fees, initial fitting out and supplies to make buildings fit to meet the European Parliament’s needs and all related costs),

    — fitting-out costs and related expenditure, as well as architects’ and engineers’ fees.

    Article 2 0 2 — Expenditure on buildings

    Item 2 0 2 2 — Building maintenance, upkeep, operation and cleaning

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    83 870 000

    81 550 000

    78 288 453,35

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover the maintenance, upkeep, operating and cleaning costs, on the basis of current contracts, for the buildings (offices, other areas and installations) rented or owned by the European Parliament.

    Before renewing or concluding contracts, the institution will consult the other institutions on the contractual terms each of them has obtained (prices, currency chosen, index-linking, duration, other clauses) with due regard for Article 167 of the Financial Regulation.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 479 000.

    Item 2 0 2 4 — Energy consumption

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    25 457 000

    28 950 000

    21 604 075,08

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover, in particular, water, gas, electricity and heating costs.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 150 000.

    Item 2 0 2 6 — Security and surveillance of buildings

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    22 610 000

    19 760 000

    18 818 361,00

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover essentially the costs of caretaking and surveillance in respect of buildings occupied by the European Parliament at its three habitual places of work, its information offices in the Union, the Europa Experiences and its offices in third countries.

    Before renewing or concluding contracts, the institution will consult the other institutions on the contractual terms each of them has obtained (prices, currency chosen, index-linking, duration, other clauses) with due regard for Article 167 of the Financial Regulation.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 100 000.

    Item 2 0 2 8 — Insurance

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    3 790 000

    3 390 000

    3 358 982,59

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover payments in respect of insurance policy premiums.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 5 000.

    Chapter 2 1 — DATA PROCESSING, EQUIPMENT AND MOVABLE PROPERTY

    Remarks

    In connection with public procurement, the institution will consult the other institutions on the contractual terms each of them has obtained.

    Article 2 1 0 — Computing and telecommunications

    Item 2 1 0 0 — IT governance and cyber security

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    11 004 000

    9 563 800

    10 169 079,47

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover expenditure on the purchase, hire, servicing and maintenance of hardware and software and on outside assistance from IT consultants to provide assistance and support related to ICT security, enterprise architecture, market exploration and studies in the domain of information and communications technology.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 5 000.

    Item 2 1 0 1 — Business applications management

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    79 323 800

    77 681 050

    80 586 736,76

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover expenditure on the purchase, hire, servicing and maintenance of hardware and software and related work, and on outside assistance from ICT consultants for operations connected with ICT user applications management in the institution, and IT project support. It is also intended to cover expenditure on ICT tools financed jointly in the context of interinstitutional cooperation in the field of languages, provided for by the decisions taken by the Interinstitutional Committee on Translation and Interpretation.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 64 000.

    Item 2 1 0 2 — Infrastructure and operations management

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    81 745 300

    80 041 200

    86 398 356,95

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover expenditure on the purchase, hire, servicing and maintenance of hardware and software and on outside assistance from IT consultants to ensure that the European Parliament’s computing and telecommunications infrastructure functions properly. That expenditure relates mainly to systems at the computer and telecommunications centre including cloud-related services, network, cabling, telecommunications and videoconferencing systems. It also relates to the voting system infrastructure, the renting or acquisition of multifunctional devices (photocopiers) and costs associated with the printing of documents.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 385 000.

    Item 2 1 0 3 — Digital workplace services and equipment

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    22 841 500

    25 209 000

    34 500 141,30

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover expenditure on the purchase, hire, servicing and maintenance of hardware and software and on outside assistance from IT consultants to provide assistance, support and IT equipment for users of the European Parliament’s computing and telecommunications systems. That expenditure mainly relates to the acquisition and maintenance of individual IT equipment and to the IT support services for Members and other users.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 192 000.

    Article 2 1 2 — Furniture

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    7 470 000

    7 990 000

    8 345 000,00

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover the purchase, hire, maintenance and repair of furniture, including the purchase of ergonomic furniture, the replacement of worn-out and broken furniture and office machines. It is also intended to cover miscellaneous expenditure on managing the European Parliament’s furniture stock.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 5 000.

    Article 2 1 4 — Technical equipment and installations

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    23 468 400

    21 322 000

    28 604 422,99

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover the purchase, hire, maintenance, repair and management of technical equipment and installations, and in particular of:

    — miscellaneous fixed and mobile technical installations and equipment in connection with publishing, security (including software), canteens, buildings, staff training and the institution’s sports centres, etc.,

    — equipment in particular for the canteens, staff shops, security, conferences, and the audiovisual sector, etc.,

    — special equipment (electronic, computing and electrical) and related external services.

    This appropriation also covers publicity costs for the resale and scrapping of inventoried items and the costs of technical assistance (consultancy) with matters on which external expertise is needed.

    This appropriation also covers the cost of transporting the equipment needed to provide technical conference services anywhere in the world when requested by a Member, delegation, political group or governing body of the European Parliament. It covers transport costs and all related administrative costs.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 190 000.

    Article 2 1 6 — Transport of Members, other persons and goods

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    6 155 000

    5 901 000

    4 965 558,61

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover the purchase, leasing, maintenance, use and repair of vehicles (fleet of cars and bicycles) and the hire of cars, taxis, coaches and lorries, with or without drivers, including the necessary insurance cover and other management costs. When replacing the car fleet or purchasing, leasing or hiring vehicles, preference will be given to cars that are the least polluting for the environment, such as hybrid cars.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 100 000.

    Chapter 2 3 — CURRENT ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENDITURE

    Remarks

    In connection with public procurement, the institution will consult the other institutions on the contractual terms each of them has obtained.

    Article 2 3 0 — Stationery, office supplies and miscellaneous consumables

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    200 000

    296 000

    168 615,80

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover the purchase of paper, envelopes, office supplies, supplies for the print shop and document reproduction workshops, etc., together with the related management costs.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 28 000.

    Article 2 3 1 — Financial charges

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    350 000

    1 850 000

    80 000,00

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover bank charges (commission, agios and miscellaneous charges) and other financial charges, including ancillary costs for the financing of buildings.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 100.

    Article 2 3 2 — Legal costs and damages

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    1 795 000

    1 635 000

    844 750,49

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover:

    — the cost of hiring bailiffs to represent the European Parliament for the purpose of notification of its decisions,

    — costs which may be awarded against the European Parliament by the Court of Justice, the General Court or national courts,

    — the cost of hiring outside lawyers to represent the European Parliament in Union and national courts, and the cost of hiring legal advisers or experts to assist the Legal Service,

    — reimbursement of lawyers’ fees in connection with disciplinary and equivalent proceedings,

    — damages and interest expenses,

    — compensation agreed through amicable settlement pursuant to Chapter 11 and Chapter 11a of Title III of the Rules of Procedure of the General Court or Chapter 7 of Title IV of the Rules of Procedure of the Court of Justice,

    — administrative fines issued by the European Data Protection Supervisor.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 5 000.

    Legal basis

    Regulation (EU) 2018/1725 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 October 2018 on the protection of natural persons with regard to the processing of personal data by the Union institutions, bodies, offices and agencies and on the free movement of such data, and repealing Regulation (EC) No 45/2001 and Decision No 1247/2002/EC (OJ L 295, 21.11.2018, p. 39, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2018/1725/oj).

    Article 2 3 6 — Postage on correspondence and delivery charges

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    268 000

    270 000

    296 196,49

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover charges for postage, processing and delivery by national postal services or private delivery firms.

    This appropriation is also intended to cover mail-handling services.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 12 000.

    Article 2 3 7 — Removals

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    1 437 000

    700 000

    1 592 272,11

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover the cost of removal and handling work carried out by removal firms or by temporary handling staff supplied by outside agencies.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 5 000.

    Article 2 3 8 — Other administrative expenditure

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    2 388 000

    2 385 000

    1 837 968,98

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover:

    — insurance not specifically provided for in another item,

    — the purchase and maintenance of uniforms for ushers, drivers, receptionists, warehouse staff, removal men and staff in the Visits and Seminars Unit, the Parlamentarium, the medical services, the security and building maintenance services and various technical services,

    — miscellaneous operating and management expenses, including fees payable to the Office for the Administration and Payment of Individual Entitlements (PMO) for managing pensions payable to former Members under the Statute, expenses related to the security clearance of external persons working on the premises or in the systems of the European Parliament, purchases of goods or services not specifically provided for against another heading,

    — miscellaneous purchases in connection with European Parliament’s corporate social responsibility, including Eco-Management Auditing Scheme (EMAS),

    — miscellaneous services in connection with European Parliament’s financial and inventory management.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 5 000.

    Article 2 3 9 — EMAS and sustainability activities, including promotion, and the European Parliament’s carbon offsetting scheme

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    950 000

    250 000

    10 267,38

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover expenditure related to sustainability activities in the European Parliament and Eco-Management Auditing Scheme (EMAS) activities aimed at improving the environmental performance of the European Parliament, including the promotion of these activities, and to the European Parliament’s carbon offsetting scheme.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 5 000.

    Title 3 — EXPENDITURE RESULTING FROM GENERAL FUNCTIONS CARRIED OUT BY THE INSTITUTION

    Chapter 3 0 — MEETINGS AND CONFERENCES

    Article 3 0 0 — Expenses for staff missions and duty travel between the three places of work

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    29 470 000

    28 850 000

    21 855 556,57

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover expenditure on duty travel by staff of the institution, seconded national experts, trainees and staff of other European or international institutions invited by the institution between place of employment and any of the European Parliament’s three places of work (Brussels, Luxembourg and Strasbourg) and on missions to any location other than the three places of work. Expenditure is made up of transport costs, daily allowances, accommodation costs and compensatory allowances for unsocial hours. Ancillary costs (including cancellation of tickets and hotel reservations, electronic invoicing costs and mission insurance costs) are also covered.

    This appropriation is also intended to cover any expenditure on carbon offsetting relating to staff missions and duty travel.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 200 000.

    Legal basis

    Staff Regulations of Officials of the European Union, and in particular Article 71 thereof and Articles 11, 12 and 13 of Annex VII thereto.

    Article 3 0 2 — Reception and representation expenses

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    1 093 128

    1 028 900

    886 086,07

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover:

    — expenses related to the obligations of the institution regarding receptions, including in connection with work relating to the assessment of scientific options (STOA), other research and forward-looking activities and representation expenses for Members of the institution,

    — representation expenses of the President when he or she is travelling outside the places of work,

    — musical projects,

    — representation expenses and the contribution to the secretarial expenses of the President’s office,

    — the Secretariat’s reception and representation expenses, including the purchase of items and medals for officials who have completed 15 or 25 years’ service,

    — miscellaneous protocol expenditure, such as on flags, display stands, invitation cards and printed menus,

    — travel and subsistence expenses incurred by VIP visitors to the institution,

    — visa costs relating to official travel by Members and staff,

    — reception and representation expenses and the other specific expenses for Members performing official duties at the European Parliament.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 100.

    Article 3 0 4 — Miscellaneous expenditure on meetings

    Item 3 0 4 0 — Miscellaneous expenditure on internal meetings

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    320 000

    370 000

    142 335,23

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover the costs of the beverages, refreshments and occasional light meals served at meetings held by the European Parliament or interinstitutional meetings organised on its premises, together with the management costs for these services.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 5 000.

    Item 3 0 4 2 — Meetings, congresses, conferences and delegations

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    3 185 301

    3 282 900

    1 351 568,80

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover, inter alia, expenses other than those covered under Chapter 1 0 and Article 3 0 0, connected with:

    — the organisation of meetings outside the places of work (committees and committee delegations, political groups), including, where appropriate, representation expenditure,

    — the organisation of interparliamentary delegations, ad hoc delegations, joint parliamentary committees, parliamentary cooperation committees, parliamentary delegations to the WTO, and the Parliamentary Conference on the WTO and its Steering Committee,

    — the organisation of delegations to the ACP-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly, the EuroLat Parliamentary Assembly and the Euronest Parliamentary Assembly and their bodies,

    — the organisation of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Union for the Mediterranean (UfMPA), its committees and its Bureau; this expenditure includes the European Parliament’s contribution to the budget of the autonomous secretariat of the UfMPA or the direct defrayal of expenses representing the European Parliament’s share of the budget of the UfMPA,

    — the affiliation fees in respect of international organisations to which the European Parliament or one of its bodies belongs (Interparliamentary Union, Association of Secretaries-General of Parliaments, Twelve Plus Group within the Interparliamentary Union),

    — the reimbursement to the Commission, on the basis of a service agreement concluded between the European Parliament and the Commission, of the European Parliament’s share of the cost of producing EU laissez-passer (equipment, staff and supplies), in accordance with the Protocol on the Privileges and Immunities of the European Union (Article 6), Article 23 of the Staff Regulations of Officials of the European Union, Articles 11 and 81 of the Conditions of Employment of Other Servants of the European Union and Council Regulation (EU) No 1417/2013 of 17 December 2013 laying down the form of the laissez-passer issued by the European Union (OJ L 353, 28.12.2013, p. 26, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2013/1417/oj),

    — participation in meetings of the Steering Board of the InvestEU Programme and official meetings with the competent parliamentary committees’ members (including travel expenses, accommodation and catering) of persons appointed by the European Parliament in the Steering Board of the InvestEU Programme.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 5 000.

    Item 3 0 4 9 — Expenditure on travel agency services

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    3 660 000

    3 590 000

    3 393 000,00

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover the running costs of the travel agency under contract to the European Parliament.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 6 000.

    Chapter 3 2 — EXPERTISE AND INFORMATION: ACQUISITION, ARCHIVING, PRODUCTION AND DISSEMINATION

    Article 3 2 0 — Acquisition of expertise

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    9 961 999

    6 485 000

    3 134 202,80

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover:

    — the cost of contracts with qualified experts and research institutes for studies and other research activities (workshops, round tables, expert panels or hearings, and conferences) or technical assistance activities that require specific skills and that are carried out for the European Parliament’s governing bodies, for the parliamentary committees, for the parliamentary delegations and for the administration,

    — acquisition or hiring of specialised information sources, such as specialised databases, related literature or technical support, when needed to complement the expertise contracts mentioned above,

    — the travel, subsistence and incidental expenses of experts and other persons, including petitioners to the European Parliament, invited to take part in committee, delegation, study group or working party meetings and in workshops,

    — costs of participation of petitioners, including travel, subsistence and incidental expenses, during the official missions of the Committee on Petitions outside of the European Parliament premises,

    — costs of dissemination of internal or external parliamentary research products and other relevant products, for the benefit of the institution and of the public (in particular by means of publications on the internet, internal databases, brochures and publications),

    — expenditure on calling-in outside persons to take part in the work of bodies such as the Disciplinary Board,

    — the cost of checks by specialised external service providers on the accuracy of documents supplied by candidates for recruitment.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 74 000.

    Article 3 2 1 — Expenditure on European parliamentary research services, including the library, the historical archives, scientific and technological options assessment (STOA) and the European Science-Media Hub

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    10 063 320

    10 134 000

    8 393 552,80

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover expenditure on the work of DG EPRS and the Historical Archives of the European Parliament, particularly:

    — acquisition of specialised expertise and support for the European Parliament’s research activities (including articles, studies, workshops, seminars, round tables, expert panels and conferences) which may, if necessary, be carried out in partnership with other Institutions, international organisations, research departments and libraries of national parliaments, think tanks, research bodies and other qualified experts,

    — acquisition of specialised expertise in the fields of impact assessment and of ex ante and ex post evaluation, European added value, and scientific and technological options assessment (STOA),

    — acquisition or hiring of books, journals, newspapers, databases, press agency products and any other information medium for the library in various formats, including costs of copyright, the quality assurance system, materials and work involved in rebinding and conservation, and other relevant services,

    — the cost of outside archiving services (organisation, selection, description, transfer to different media and to paperless form, acquisition of primary archive sources),

    — acquisition, development, installation, operation and maintenance of special library and archiving documentation and of special media-library materials, including materials and electrical, electronic and computerised systems, and materials for rebinding and conservation,

    — costs of dissemination of internal or external parliamentary research products and other relevant products, for the benefit of the institution and of the public (in particular by means of publications on the internet, internal databases, brochures and publications),

    — travel, subsistence and associated costs of experts and authors invited to attend presentations, seminars, workshops or other such activities organised,

    — participation by the services responsible for Scientific and Technological Options Assessment (STOA) in the activities of European and international scientific bodies,

    — the European Parliament’s obligations under international and interinstitutional cooperation agreements, including the European Parliament’s contribution to the costs of managing the Union’s historical archives in accordance with Regulation (EEC, Euratom) No 354/83,

    — the costs of the European Science-Media Hub, the operations of which are overseen by the European Parliament’s Panel for the Future of Science and Technology (STOA), in enhancing the interface between the European Parliament, the scientific community and the media, in order specifically to promote networking, training and knowledge dissemination. This includes for example:

    — organising activities and dealing with expenses (including travel expenses, accommodation and catering) in connection with invitations to journalists, stakeholders and other experts to cover the activities concerned,

    — setting up and maintaining networks at the interface between the European Parliament, the scientific community and the media,

    — organising seminars, conferences and training courses on current scientific and technological developments and issues and on the nature and effectiveness of science journalism,

    — harnessing expert information and analysis from academia, the media and other sources in the field of science and technology for the benefit of policy-makers and citizens,

    — making European Parliament research and other relevant material in the field of science and technology more widely available by written, audiovisual and other means,

    — developing techniques and methods for increasing the ability to identify and disseminate trustworthy sources in the field of science and technology,

    — supporting the installation, upgrading and use of state-of-the-art technical equipment and media facilities in support of such dialogue,

    — developing closer cooperation and, more generally, links between the European Parliament, relevant media outlets and universities and research centres in this field, including through promotion in the media of the role, and work of the European Science-Media Hub as well as its accessibility for citizens.

    This appropriation may also be used to support dialogue between the European Parliament and the university community, the media, think tanks and citizens with regard to foresight work on the long-term trends to be addressed by European Union decision-makers, both in the field of science and more broadly, through seminars, publications and other activities set out above.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 100.

    Legal basis

    Council Regulation (EEC, Euratom) No 354/83 of 1 February 1983 concerning the opening to the public of the historical archives of the European Economic Community and the European Atomic Energy Community (OJ L 43, 15.2.1983, p. 1, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/1983/354/oj).

    Regulation (EC) No 1049/2001 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 May 2001 regarding public access to European Parliament, Council and Commission documents (OJ L 145, 31.5.2001, p. 43, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2001/1049/oj).

    Decision of the Bureau of the European Parliament of 28 November 2001 on rules governing public access to European Parliament documents, as last amended on 22 June 2011 (OJ C 216, 22.7.2011, p. 19).

    Decision of the Bureau of the European Parliament of 2 July 2012 on rules on document management in the European Parliament.

    European Parliament resolution of 8 October 2013 on forward policy planning and long-term trends: budgetary implications for capacity-building (OJ C 181, 19.5.2016, p. 16), and in particular paragraphs 7 and 9 thereof.

    Decision of the Bureau of the European Parliament of 10 March 2014 on procedures governing the European Parliament’s acquisition of private archives of Members and former Members.

    Decision of the Bureau of the European Parliament of 15 April 2019 on the STOA rules.

    Decision of the Bureau of the European Parliament of 17 June 2019 on the rules of the European Parliament Library.

    Article 3 2 2 — Documentation expenditure

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    2 973 500

    3 115 000

    3 221 682,79

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover:

    — subscriptions to newspapers and periodicals and news agencies and to the publications thereof and online services, including copyright fees for the reproduction and dissemination of the above in written and/or electronic form and service contracts for press reviews and cuttings,

    — subscriptions or service contracts for the supply of summaries and analyses of the content of periodicals or the storage on optical media of articles taken from such periodicals,

    — utilising external documentary and statistical databases (computer hardware and telecommunications charges excepted),

    — the purchase of new dictionaries and glossaries, or the replacement thereof, regardless of medium, including for the new language sections, and other works for the language services and the Legislative Quality Units.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 100.

    Article 3 2 3 — Support for democracy and capacity-building for the parliaments of third countries

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    1 400 000

    1 400 000

    517 672,34

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover:

    — expenditure on programmes for the exchange of information and cooperation between the European Parliament and the national parliaments of the pre-accession countries, in particular the Western Balkans and Turkey,

    — expenditure committed for promoting relations between the European Parliament and democratically elected national parliaments from third countries (other than those referred to in the previous indent) as well as with corresponding regional parliamentary organisations. The activities concerned are notably aimed at strengthening parliamentary capacity in new and emerging democracies in particular in the European Neighbourhood (South and East),

    — expenditure on promoting activities in support of mediation, and programmes for young political leaders from the European Union and from countries in the wider European Neighbourhood: the Maghreb, Eastern Europe and Russia, Israeli-Palestinian dialogue and other priority countries as decided by the Democracy Support and Election Coordination Group,

    — expenditure on organising the Sakharov Prize (in particular the amount of the prize, travel expenses of the winner(s) and other finalists and the costs of receiving them, operating costs of the Sakharov network and duty travel by members of the network) and on activities to promote human rights.

    These activities include information visits to the European Parliament in Brussels, Luxembourg or Strasbourg and visits to Member States and third countries. This appropriation covers, wholly or partially, the expenses of the participants, particularly travel, accommodation and daily subsistence.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 100.

    Legal basis

    Decision of the Bureau of the European Parliament of 12 December 2011 establishing the Directorate for Democracy Support in the Directorate-General for External Policies of the Union.

    Article 3 2 4 — Production and dissemination

    Item 3 2 4 0 — Official Journal

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    p.m.

    p.m.

    0,—

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover the institution’s share of the Publications Office’s expenditure on publishing and dissemination and other ancillary costs with regard to the texts to be published in the Official Journal of the European Union.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 5 000.

    Item 3 2 4 1 — Digital and traditional publications

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    1 579 800

    1 619 600

    2 137 349,13

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover:

    — all costs for digital publishing (Intranet sites) and traditional publishing (miscellaneous documents and printed matter subcontracted out), including distribution,

    — upgrading and evolutive and corrective maintenance of editorial systems.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 10 000.

    Item 3 2 4 2 — Expenditure on publication, information and participation in public events

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    26 530 000

    27 640 000

    36 366 874,13

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover:

    — expenditure on communication relating to the values of the institution by means of information publications, including electronic publications, information activities, public relations, participation in public events, trade fairs and exhibitions,

    — expenditure on communication in order to give the European Parliament a recognisable, coherent and positive public image, to develop communication products from the creative concept to the final product and capacity building towards an internal communication agency, including access to industry tools and external expert advice,

    — co-financing of communication actions through a grants program in order to promote and multiply a better understanding of the identity, role and political nature of the European Parliament and to stimulate collaboration with multiplier networks,

    — the cost relating to public opinion monitoring,

    — the cost linked to monitoring, countering and raising awareness on the reputational risks, disinformation and hybrid threats,

    — the cost of cultural projects of European interest, such as the European Parliament LUX Prize for European Cinema,

    — the cost of organising and running events for young people, raising the European Parliament’s social media profile, and monitoring youth trends,

    — costs relating to the mobile internet, interactive technologies, socialising spaces, collaborative platforms and changing internet user behaviour, with a view to bringing the European Parliament closer to citizens,

    — the cost of in-house production, distribution and hosting by the European Parliament of web clips and other broadcast-ready multimedia material, in line with the European Parliament’s communication strategy,

    — expenditure on works of art for the European Parliament, covering both the cost of acquiring and purchasing specific material and the current expenditure relating thereto, such as experts, conservation, framing, restoration, cleaning, insurance and ad-hoc transport costs.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 50 000.

    Item 3 2 4 3 — European Parliament visitor centres

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    25 180 000

    27 150 000

    26 687 400,69

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to finance installations, material and exhibitions at European Parliament visitor centres, in particular:

    — the Parlamentarium — the European Parliament Visitors’ Centre in Brussels, including the mobile information points,

    — reception facilities, ‘Europa Experience’ centres and information outlets away from Brussels,

    — the activities of the House of European History, such as carrying out specific fitting-out work, acquiring collections, the cost of contracts with experts, and organising exhibitions, as well as its running costs, including expenditure on books, magazines and other publications related to the House of European History’s activities.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 4 000 000.

    Item 3 2 4 4 — Organisation and reception of groups of visitors, Euroscola programme and invitations to opinion multipliers from third countries

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    38 223 000

    38 496 000

    33 108 635,98

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover:

    — subsidies granted for group visits and associated supervision and infrastructure costs, the financing of traineeships for opinion multipliers from third countries (EUVP) and the running costs of the Euroscola, Euromed-Scola and Euronest-Scola programmes. The Euromed-Scola and Euronest-Scola programmes shall take place each year, with the exception of election years, on an alternating basis, on the European Parliament’s premises in Strasbourg or in Brussels,

    — activities to promote the EUVP,

    — expenditure related to the implementation of the new visitors’ strategy and the organisation of the open days,

    — media campaigns and the organisation of the European Parliament Ambassador School Programme.

    This appropriation shall be increased every year using a deflator that takes into account movements in GNI and prices.

    Each Member of the European Parliament is entitled to invite a maximum of five groups each calendar year for a total of 100 visitors. Visitor groups officially sponsored by a Member may take part in the Euroscola programme if invited to do so by that Member.

    An appropriate amount is included for visitors with disabilities.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 525 000.

    Legal basis

    Decision of the Bureau of the European Parliament of 16 December 2002 on rules governing the reception of groups of visitors and the Euroscola, Euromed-Scola and Euronest-Scola programmes, consolidated on 3 May 2004, as last amended and consolidated on 11 September and 2 October 2023.

    Decision of the Bureau of the European Parliament of 3 October 2016 on rules launching the European Parliament Ambassador School Programme in all Member States and Decision of the Bureau of the European Parliament of 16 September 2019 on the continuation of the European Parliament Ambassador School Programme beyond 2019.

    Decision of the Bureau of the European Parliament of 16 December 2020 on the participation of UK citizens and EU27 citizens living in the UK in Parliament’s communication programmes.

    Item 3 2 4 5 — Organisation of symposia and seminars

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    5 056 400

    4 803 050

    4 413 205,23

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover:

    — expenditure or subsidies connected with the organisation of national or international symposia and seminars for opinion multipliers from the Member States, the accession countries and the countries in which the European Parliament has a liaison office or antenna, and the cost of organising parliamentary symposia and seminars,

    — expenditure on special events in the Chamber in Strasbourg and Brussels in accordance with the annual programme adopted by the Bureau of the European Parliament,

    — expenditure on conference management services, conference management and multilingualism support measures and tools such as seminars and conferences, meetings with providers of training for interpreters or translators, measures and actions to raise awareness of multilingualism and the profession of interpreter or translator, including a programme of grants for universities, schools and other organisations offering interpreting or translation courses, virtual communication solutions, organisation or participation in events for promotion and awareness of European Parliament careers, including events organised to enhance the attractiveness of the Luxembourgish site as well as participation in similar actions and measures organised jointly with other services in the context of interinstitutional and international cooperation,

    — expenses connected with the organisation of symposia and seminars on information and communication technologies,

    — the cost of inviting journalists or other opinion multipliers to plenary sittings, committee meetings, press conferences and other parliamentary activities,

    — expenses related to the Daphne Caruana Galizia Prize,

    — expenditure for the training of and scholarship for young journalists.

    — expenditure relating to the organisation of conferences, seminars and other activities covering budgetary and financial issues of relevance to European Parliament’s administration and Members’ finance, including Members’ empowerment and the financing of political structures,

    — expenses connected with the organisation of symposia and seminars on security and on parliamentary democracy at interinstitutional and international levels including outreach and awareness raising, through events and communication tools such as digital communication, visual design, promotional items, printing or audio-visual productions, etc.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 25 000.

    Legal basis

    Decision of the Bureau of the European Parliament of 5 October 2020 regarding the Daphne Caruana Galizia Prize for journalists.

    Item 3 2 4 8 — Expenditure on audiovisual information

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    22 087 500

    21 072 500

    24 575 954,24

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover:

    — the purchase, hire, maintenance, repair and management of audiovisual equipment and installations,

    — the operating budget of the audiovisual sector (including services under its own control and outside assistance such as technical services for radio and television stations, provision, production and co-production of audiovisual programmes, the hiring of lines, the transmission of television and radio programmes, and other measures to develop relations between the institution and audiovisual broadcasting bodies),

    — expenditure on live internet broadcasting of plenary sittings and parliamentary committee meetings,

    — the establishment of appropriate archives ensuring uninterrupted media and public access to that information,

    — expenditure relating to the management and maintenance of the IT infrastructure in the press room in Strasbourg.

    — service contracts for (i) the supply of media monitoring and analysis in the form of summaries of news and full-text articles from media outlets, (ii) the development and maintenance of a dedicated database for the storage of such data, and (iii) the (external) human resources needed to exploit that data.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 50 000.

    Legal basis

    European Parliament Resolution of 12 March 2002 on the guidelines for the 2003 budgetary procedure (OJ C 47 E, 27.2.2003, p. 72).

    European Parliament Resolution of 14 May 2002 on the estimates of revenue and expenditure of Parliament for the financial year 2003 (OJ C 180 E, 31.7.2003, p. 150).

    European Parliament Resolution of 14 May 2003 on the estimates of revenue and expenditure of Parliament for the financial year 2004 (OJ C 67 E, 17.3.2004, p. 179).

    Item 3 2 4 9 — Information exchanges with national parliaments

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    262 000

    258 000

    142 000,00

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover:

    — expenditure committed for promoting relations between the European Parliament and national parliaments. It relates to parliamentary relations other than those covered by Chapters 1 0 and 3 0, exchanges of information and documentation, and assistance in the analysis and management of that information, including exchanges with the European Centre for Parliamentary Research and Documentation (ECPRD),

    — funding of cooperation programmes and training schemes for officials of the European Parliament and national parliaments and, in general, activities to strengthen their parliamentary capacities.

    Training schemes include study visits to the European Parliament in Brussels, Luxembourg and Strasbourg; the appropriation is intended to cover all or part of the expenditure incurred by participants, in particular travelling costs, travel expenses, accommodation and daily allowances,

    — cooperation measures, including those linked to legislative work, and measures linked to documentation, analysis and information and making the www.ipex.eu domain secure, including those carried out by the ECPRD.

    This appropriation aims at financing the cooperation between the European Parliament and national parliaments in the parliamentary scrutiny of the CFSP/CSDP, in accordance with the TEU and the TFEU, and in particular Articles 9 and 10 of Protocol No 1 on the role of national parliaments in the European Union.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 100.

    Legal basis

    Conferences of Speakers of European Parliamentary Assemblies (June 1977) and of European Union Parliaments (September 2000, March 2001).

    Article 3 2 5 — Expenditure relating to liaison offices

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    11 213 000

    11 088 000

    10 572 999,41

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover expenditure by the European Parliament’s liaison offices and antennas in the Member States and third countries:

    — communication and information expenses (information and public events; internet — production, promotion, consultancy; seminars; audiovisual productions),

    — activities designed to strengthen inter-parliamentary ties and legislative and stakeholders dialogue, promoting parliamentary democracy including engagement with relevant interlocutors,

    — general expenditure and miscellaneous incidental expenditure (office supplies, telecommunications, delivery charges, handling, transport, storage, standard promotional items, databases and press subscriptions, etc.),

    — media campaigns and the organisation of the European Parliament Ambassador School Programme.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 10 000.

    Title 4 — EXPENDITURE RESULTING FROM SPECIAL FUNCTIONS CARRIED OUT BY THE INSTITUTION

    Chapter 4 0 — EXPENDITURE RELATING TO CERTAIN INSTITUTIONS AND BODIES

    Article 4 0 0 — Current administrative expenditure and expenditure relating to the political and information activities of the political groups and non-attached Members

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    75 800 000

    70 000 000

    65 579 003,98

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover, in respect of the political groups and the non-attached Members:

    — secretarial, administrative and operational expenditure,

    — expenditure on political and information activities conducted in connection with the Union’s political activities.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 1 000 000.

    Legal basis

    Decision of the Bureau of the European Parliament of 30 June 2003 on rules on the use of appropriations from budget Item 4 0 0 as last amended on 4 July 2022.

    Article 4 0 2 — Funding of European political parties

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    46 000 000

    46 000 000

    37 953 095,70

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to finance political parties at European level. Good governance and robust scrutiny of the use of funds must be ensured.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 5 000 000.

    Legal basis

    Treaty on European Union, and in particular Article 10(4) thereof.

    Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular Article 224 thereof.

    Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1141/2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 22 October 2014 on the statute and funding of European political parties and European political foundations (OJ L 317, 4.11.2014, p. 1, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2014/1141/oj).

    Decision of the Bureau of the European Parliament of 1 July 2019 laying down the procedures for implementing Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1141/2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council on the statute and funding of European political parties and European political foundations (OJ C 249, 25.7.2019, p. 2).

    Article 4 0 3 — Funding of European political foundations

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    25 000 000

    24 000 000

    21 871 071,50

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to finance political foundations at European level. Good governance and robust scrutiny of the use of funds must be ensured.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 100 000.

    Legal basis

    Treaty on European Union, and in particular Article 10(4) thereof.

    Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular Article 224 thereof.

    Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1141/2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 22 October 2014 on the statute and funding of European political parties and European political foundations (OJ L 317, 4.11.2014, p. 1, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2014/1141/oj).

    Decision of the Bureau of the European Parliament of 1 July 2019 laying down the procedures for implementing Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1141/2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council on the statute and funding of European political parties and European political foundations (OJ C 249, 25.7.2019, p. 2).

    Chapter 4 2 — EXPENDITURE RELATING TO PARLIAMENTARY ASSISTANCE

    Article 4 2 2 — Expenditure relating to parliamentary assistance

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    279 165 340

    263 855 176

    222 263 343,15

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover:

    — costs relating to staff and service providers responsible for the provision of parliamentary assistance to Members, as well as costs relating to paying agents,

    — mission and training expenses (external courses) for accredited parliamentary assistants and expenditure on any carbon offsetting in connection with their missions and duty travel,

    — exchange differences to be met from the budget of the European Parliament in accordance with the provisions applicable to reimbursement of parliamentary assistance expenses, as well as expenditure on parliamentary assistance management support services,

    — emoluments for trainees (scholarships),

    — contribution to the cost of lunches of trainees at the European Parliament’s canteens,

    — compensation of study visits with Members,

    — travel expenses of trainees and study visitors with Members,

    — sickness and accident insurance for trainees and study visitors with Members,

    — costs connected with the holding of information or training sessions for trainees.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 775 000.

    Legal basis

    Statute for Members of the European Parliament, and in particular Article 21 thereof.

    Implementing measures for the Statute for Members of the European Parliament, and in particular Articles 29 to 41 thereof.

    Conditions of Employment of Other Servants of the European Union, and in particular Article 5a and Articles 125 to 139 thereof.

    Decision of the Bureau of the European Parliament of 14 April 2014 on implementing measures for Title VII of the Conditions of Employment of Other Servants of the European Union.

    Decision of the Bureau of the European Parliament of 10 December 2018 on the rules concerning Members’ trainees.

    Decision of the Secretary-General of the European Parliament of 29 April 2021 on the internal rules governing traineeships in the Secretariat of the European Parliament.

    Chapter 4 4 — MEETINGS AND OTHER ACTIVITIES OF CURRENT AND FORMER MEMBERS

    Article 4 4 0 — Cost of meetings and other activities of former Members

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    316 000

    310 000

    300 000,00

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover the cost of meetings of the association of former Members of the European Parliament plus any other associated costs, if appropriate.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 100.

    Legal basis

    Decision of the Bureau of the European Parliament of 14 January 2008 on rules governing contributions to Parliamentary associations (Budget Articles 4 4 0 and 4 4 2) as last amended on 18 October 2021.

    Article 4 4 2 — Cost of meetings and other activities of the European Parliamentary Association

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    316 000

    310 000

    293 203,56

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover the cost of meetings of the European Parliamentary Association plus, if appropriate, any other associated costs.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 100.

    Legal basis

    Decision of the Bureau of the European Parliament of 14 January 2008 on rules governing contributions to Parliamentary associations (Budget Articles 4 4 0 and 4 4 2) as last amended on 18 October 2021.

    Title 5 — THE AUTHORITY FOR EUROPEAN POLITICAL PARTIES AND EUROPEAN POLITICAL FOUNDATIONS AND THE COMMITTEE OF INDEPENDENT EMINENT PERSONS

    Chapter 5 0 — Expenditure of the Authority for European political parties and European political foundations and the Committee of independent eminent persons

    Article 5 0 0 — Operational expenditure of the Authority for European political parties and European political foundations

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    416 160

    408 000

    100 839,83

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover the expenditure of the Authority for European political parties and European political foundations to ensure its full and independent operation.

    It covers, in particular, the expenditure specific to the Authority’s remit with regard to specialised professional training, mandate-related meetings and coordination with other Union bodies and national authorities, acquisition of tailor-made software and IT services, acquisition of expertise, consultancy services, including studies, and documentation, legal costs and damages, and publishing and information activities. It also covers expenditure to cover any invoicing by an institution in the event of an overrun as regards the volume or cost of goods or services made available to the Authority by institutions under service agreements pursuant to Article 6(4) et seq. of Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1141/2014.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 416 160. That revenue includes, in particular, support for the operation of the Authority by institutions other than the European Parliament, pursuant to Article 6(6) of Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1141/2014.

    Legal basis

    Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1141/2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 22 October 2014 on the statute and funding of European political parties and European political foundations (OJ L 317, 4.11.2014, p. 1, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2014/1141/oj), and in particular Article 6(1) and (7) thereof.

    Article 5 0 1 — Expenditure related to the committee of independent eminent persons

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    20 000

    20 000

    0,—

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover the expenditure linked to the secretariat and the funding of the committee of independent eminent persons.

    The amount of assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(3) of the Financial Regulation is estimated at EUR 100.

    Legal basis

    Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1141/2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 22 October 2014 on the statute and funding of European political parties and European political foundations (OJ L 317, 4.11.2014, p. 1, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2014/1141/oj), and in particular Article 11(2) thereof.

    Title 10 — OTHER EXPENDITURE

    Chapter 10 0 — PROVISIONAL APPROPRIATIONS

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    p.m.

    3.3100.000

    0,—

    Remarks

    The appropriations entered in this chapter are purely provisional and may only be used after the adoption of the legal basis for the payment of a ‘housing allowance for staff in Luxembourg’ and after their transfer to other budget lines in accordance with the Financial Regulation.

    Chapter 10 1 — CONTINGENCY RESERVE

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    6 000 000

    7 200 000

    0,—

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover expenditure resulting from budgetary decisions taken in the course of the financial year (expenditure that cannot be estimated).

    Chapter 10 3 — ENLARGEMENT RESERVE

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    p.m.

    p.m.

    0,—

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover the cost of the institution’s preparations for enlargement.

    Chapter 10 4 — RESERVE FOR INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION POLICY

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    p.m.

    p.m.

    0,—

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover expenditure on information and communication policy.

    Chapter 10 5 — PROVISIONAL APPROPRIATION FOR IMMOVABLE PROPERTY

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    p.m.

    p.m.

    0,—

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover property investments and fitting-out work carried out by the institution. The Bureau of the European Parliament is requested to adopt a coherent and responsible long-term strategy in the area of immovable property which takes into account the particular problem of increasing maintenance costs, renovation needs and security costs and ensures the sustainability of the European Parliament’s budget.

    Chapter 10 6 — RESERVE FOR PRIORITY PROJECTS UNDER DEVELOPMENT

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    p.m.

    p.m.

    0,—

    Remarks

    This appropriation is intended to cover expenditure on the institution’s priority projects under development.

    Chapter 10 8 — EMAS RESERVE

    Figures (Non-differentiated appropriations)

    2026 appropriations

    2025 appropriations

    2024 out-turn

    p.m.

    p.m.

    0,—

    Remarks

    Further to the decisions to be taken by the Bureau of the European Parliament for implementation of the EMAS action plan, in particular following the European Parliament’s carbon audit, this appropriation is intended to endow the relevant operational headings.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Carbon Streaming Announces Financial Results for the Year Ended December 31, 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, March 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Carbon Streaming Corporation (Cboe CA: NETZ) (OTCQB: OFSTF) (FSE: M2Q) (“Carbon Streaming” or the “Company”) today reported its financial results for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024. All figures are expressed in United States dollars, unless otherwise indicated. The Company will host a live audio call at 11:00 a.m. ET on Tuesday, April 1, 2025. In addition, the Company is also pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Sam Wong to the board of directors of the Company (the “Board”) effective April 1, 2025.

    Carbon Streaming Chief Executive Officer Marin Katusa stated: “In the fourth quarter of 2024, Carbon Streaming focused on its restructuring efforts and evaluating strategic alternatives while taking significant steps to reduce costs and improve financial sustainability. We successfully reduced the number of individuals receiving full-time salaries from 24 at the start of 2024 to 4 by January 2025, resulting in significant savings to ongoing operating expenses. With cost reductions complete, our priority in 2025 is to maximize value from our existing portfolio while continuing to explore all strategic options to enhance shareholder value.  More specifically, we will evaluate all potential acquisitions, divestments, corporate transactions, and strategic partnerships. While the voluntary carbon market continues to experience difficult market conditions and many economic uncertainties exist, we are committed to adapting to market conditions and ensuring the best path forward for our shareholders. With respect to the Rimba Raya, Magdalena Bay and Sustainable Community Streams, the Company remains focused on protecting our investments and preserving our rights as we will with all our investments.”

    Annual Highlights

    • Ended the year with $37.4 million in cash and no corporate debt.
    • Reduced the number of individuals receiving full-time salaries at the Company – including employees, consultants, and directors – from 24 at the start of 2024 to 8 by year-end, with a further decrease to 4 full time employees by January 2025, resulting in significant savings in ongoing operating expenses.
    • Recognized a net loss on revaluation of carbon credit streaming and royalty agreements of $58.2 million (net loss on revaluation of $32.9 million in 2023). The net loss on revaluation for each period was driven by reductions in the carbon credit production and sales profiles and carbon credit pricing assumptions, and an increase to the risk-adjusted discount rate.
    • Continued the previously-announced corporate restructuring plan, which resulted in a non-recurring restructuring charge of $2.6 million.
    • Generated $1.6 million in settlements from carbon credit streaming and royalty agreements (settlements of $55 thousand in 2023).
    • Operating loss of $68.3 million (operating loss of $45.0 million in 2023).
    • Recognized net loss of $67.4 million (net loss of $35.5 million in 2023).
    • Adjusted net loss was $5.2 million (adjusted net loss of $7.6 million in 2023) (see the “Non-IFRS Accounting Standards Measures” section of this news release).
    • Paid $8.1 million in upfront deposits for carbon credit streaming and royalty agreements (paid $7.6 million in upfront deposits in 2023).

    Fourth Quarter Highlights

    • Recognized a net loss on revaluation of carbon credit streaming and royalty agreements of $13.2 million (net loss on revaluation of $24.0 million in Q4 2023). The net loss on revaluation for each period was driven by reductions in the carbon credit production and sales profiles and carbon credit pricing assumptions, and an increase to the risk-adjusted discount rate.
    • Generated $0.5 million in settlements from carbon credit streaming and royalty agreements (settlements of $nil in Q4 2023).
    • Operating loss of $14.9 million (operating loss of $26.8 million in Q4 2023).
    • Recognized net loss of $16.9 million (net loss of $26.1 million in Q4 2023).
    • Adjusted net loss was $0.9 million (adjusted net loss of $2.2 million in Q4 2023) (see the “Non-IFRS Accounting Standards Measures” section of this news release).
    • Paid $2.2 million in upfront deposits for carbon credit streaming and royalty agreements (paid $2.1 million in upfront deposits in Q4 2023).

    Financial Highlights Summary

      Three months ended
    December 31, 2024
    Three months ended
    December 31, 2023
    Year ended December 31, 2024 Year ended December 31, 2023
    Carbon credit streaming and royalty agreements        
    Revaluation of carbon credit streaming and royalty agreements $ (13,190)   $ (23,952)   $ (58,155)   $ (32,897)  
    Settlements from carbon credit streaming and royalty agreements1   513     –     1,550     55  
    Other financial highlights        
    Other operating expenses   1,760     2,691     10,340     12,035  
    Operating loss   (14,923)     (26,784)     (68,335)     (45,002)  
    Net loss   (16,932)     (26,092)     (67,369)     (35,501)  
    Loss per share (Basis and Diluted) ($/share)   (0.32)     (0.55)     (1.34)     (0.75)  
    Adjusted net loss2   (884)     (2,225)     (5,214)     (7,586)  
    Adjusted net loss per share (Basic and Diluted) ($/share)2   (0.02)     (0.05)     (0.10)     (0.16)  
    Statement of financial position        
    Cash3   37,350     51,416     37,350     51,416  
    Carbon credit streaming and royalty agreements3   9,081     60,122     9,081     60,122  
    Total assets3   48,683     117,111     48,683     117,111  
    Non-current liabilities3   112     1,083     112     1,083  
    1. Relates to the net cash proceeds generated from the Company’s carbon credit streaming and royalty agreements.
    2. “Adjusted net loss”, including per share amounts, is a non-IFRS® Accounting Standards (the “IFRS Accounting Standards”) financial performance measure that is used in this news release. This measure does not have any standardized meaning under the IFRS Accounting Standards and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. For more information about this measure, why it is used by the Company, and a reconciliation to the most directly comparable measure under the IFRS Accounting Standards, see the “Non-IFRS Accounting Standards Measures” section of this news release.
    3. Cash, carbon credit streaming and royalty agreements, total assets and non-current liabilities are presented as at the relevant tabular reporting date.

    Portfolio Updates

    Rimba Raya Stream: On April 26, 2024, the Company announced that it was informed that PT Rimba Raya Conservation (“PT Rimba”), the local concession holder for the Rimba Raya project, had its Forest Utilization Business License (the “Concession License”) revoked by the Indonesian Government’s Ministry of Environment and Forestry (the “MOEF”). PT Rimba challenged the MOEF’s revocation of the Concession License, and in July 2024, the State Administrative Court of Jakarta (the “Court of Jakarta”) reached a decision on PT Rimba’s claim and declared that the revocation by the MOEF of the Concession License is void. The MOEF appealed the decision of the Court of Jakarta and in September 2024, the State Administrative High Court of Jakarta (the “High Court of Jakarta”) upheld the Court of Jakarta’s decision declaring that the revocation by the MOEF of the Concession License is void. The MOEF submitted an appeal of the decision of the High Court of Jakarta and as such, the decision of the High Court of Jakarta upholding that the revocation by the MOEF of the Concession License is void does not yet have permanent legal force. While the appeal process is underway, the interlocutory decision issued by the Court of Jakarta on May 16, 2024, requiring the MOEF to suspend the implementation of its decree in respect of the revocation of the Concession License, will remain in place.

    In October 2024, InfiniteEARTH Limited and its Indonesian subsidiary PT InfiniteEARTH Nusantara, the project operators of the Rimba Raya project (collectively “InfiniteEARTH”) delivered a notice of intent to abandon the project (the “RR Notice of Abandonment”). Pursuant to the RR Notice of Abandonment, InfiniteEARTH claims that a Regulation entitled Regulation of the Ministry of Environment and Forestry Number 7 Year of 2023 issued on June 14, 2023 by the Indonesian Government (“Regulation No. 7 2023”), prohibits the issuance and transfer of carbon rights from PT Rimba to InfiniteEARTH. InfiniteEARTH claims that as a result of Regulation No. 7 2023, it has been unable to economically develop or continue to operate the Rimba Raya project and that this is a force majeure event under the Rimba Raya Stream. The Company has notified InfiniteEARTH that it rejects the assertion that Regulation No. 7 2023 is an event of force majeure and has commenced an arbitration seeking, among other things, an order that the RR Notice of Abandonment is invalid or void.

    In October 2024, the Company commenced an arbitration administered by the International Centre of Dispute Resolution against InfiniteEARTH in accordance with the Rimba Raya Stream; and against the shareholders of InfiniteEARTH Limited in accordance with the Strategic Alliance Agreement (the “SAA“). The arbitration has since been bifurcated into two arbitration proceedings, dealing with (i) the Rimba Raya Stream; and (ii) the SAA.

    In October 2024, the Company also issued a Notice of Action in the Ontario Superior Court of Justice seeking declaratory relief against the principals of InfiniteEARTH Limited and their related entities, seeking to enforce its rights in relation to guarantees and non-competition agreements related to the Rimba Raya Stream and the SAA. Some of the defendants have counterclaimed. The dispute between the Company and InfiniteEARTH arises out of acts and omissions that the Company alleges are improper and in breach of the Rimba Raya Stream, the SAA and related agreements. Management of the Company believes that delivering the Notice of Arbitration and issuing the Notice of Action in the Ontario Superior Court of Justice were important steps in preserving the Company’s legal and contractual rights.

    As a result of the uncertainty of the duration and outcome of the appeal process in respect of the Concession License and the ongoing legal dispute between the Company, InfiniteEARTH and the founders of InfiniteEARTH, the Company has reclassified the status of the Rimba Raya Stream to “Expired”. As at December 31, 2024, the Company has determined the fair value of the Rimba Raya Stream to be $nil.

    Magdalena Bay Blue Carbon Stream: In the third quarter of 2024, Fundación MarVivo Mexico, A.C. and MarVivo Corporation (collectively, “MarVivo”) delivered a notice of intent to abandon the project (the “MarVivo Notice of Abandonment”). Pursuant to the MarVivo Notice of Abandonment, MarVivo claims that the failure to transfer the concession rights from the Secretariat of Environment and Natural Resources (“SEMARNAT”), Mexico’s environment ministry, to the jurisdiction of Mexico’s National Commission for Protected Natural Areas (“CONANP”), constitutes an event of force majeure and that it is no longer economical to develop or continue to operate the project. The Company’s position is that the attempt to abandon the project constitutes a breach of the terms of the Magdalena Bay Blue Carbon Stream. The Company has notified MarVivo that it rejects the assertion that the failure to transfer the concession rights constitutes an event of force majeure and that if MarVivo abandons the project or takes steps to wind-down, this will amount to a breach of the terms of the Magdalena Bay Blue Carbon Stream. As a result of the MarVivo Notice of Abandonment and the assertions of MarVivo, the Company has determined the fair value of the Magdalena Bay Blue Carbon Stream to be $nil as at December 31, 2024. The Company reserves all rights with respect to the agreements between the parties and intends to strictly enforce its legal and contractual rights under the Magdalena Bay Blue Carbon Stream.

    Sustainable Community Stream: In the third quarter of 2024, the Company exercised its contractual rights to terminate the Sustainable Community Stream as a result of, among other things, the failure of the project operator, Will Solutions Inc., to meet its milestone related to the registration of its Ontario project and its failure to develop and implement the project in accordance with the project plan (including continued delays in project development activities and lower-than-expected project enrollments). As a result of the Sustainable Community Stream being terminated, the fair value of the Sustainable Community Stream was determined to be $nil as at December 31, 2024. The Company intends to strictly enforce its legal and contractual rights under the Sustainable Community Stream.

    Cerrado Biome Stream: At the time of project registration, the project planned to expand the project to 80,000 hectares by incorporating more land parcels, and to generate approximately 13 million carbon credits over a 30-year project life. Enrollment of additional land parcels has been slower than anticipated, primarily due to declining demand and lower pricing for REDD+ carbon credits. As a result, the expected revenue from carbon credit sales has decreased, reducing the financial incentive for landholders to transition from agricultural production to REDD+ project enrollment. Currently, the project consists of two land parcels covering approximately 11,000 hectares, expected to generate 1.2 million carbon credits over 30 years; however, the actual number of carbon credits issued will depend on the project’s ability to attract additional landholders. Revenue shortfalls have been driven by delays in the Verra verification process and price volatility for credits issued by REDD+ projects.

    Waverly Biochar Stream and Royalty: Following the accelerated payment of the final milestone payments in the second quarter of 2024, the project reached mechanical completion and first biochar production in the third quarter of 2024. However, additional technical challenges prevented continuous operation of the facility and have continued to delay full production capacity. The project is currently focused on securing additional funding to support commissioning, the initial facility audit, and the first output audit with Puro.earth. Verification was anticipated in the third quarter of 2025, with first issuance of carbon credits to follow immediately thereafter, but is now expected to be delayed.

    In 2023, the Company announced an agreement to provide Microsoft Corporation with carbon credits from the Waverly Biochar Stream of up to 10,000 carbon credits per year. Under this agreement, the Company is committed to delivering a minimum quantity of credits on specified future dates. If the Company is unable to fulfill this commitment, Microsoft Corporation may request that credits be sourced from an alternative project of their choosing.

    Community Carbon Stream: In 2024, the projects under the Community Carbon Stream issued over 1,600,000 carbon credits from the Mozambique cookstove project, the Uganda cookstove project, the Tanzania cookstove project, and the Uganda household safe water project. Additionally, the Community Carbon Stream generated $1.1 million in cash settlements for the year ended December 31, 2024.

    On May 8, 2024, the Company amended the terms of the Community Carbon Stream resulting in, among other things, revising the Company’s economic interest to provide for a tiered streaming structure which is adjusted as certain return on invested capital thresholds are achieved, and adjusting the portfolio composition and milestone payments to focus on the five strongest projects, three cookstove projects in Mozambique, Tanzania and Uganda and two water purification projects in Malawi and Uganda.

    Following the May 2024 amendment, the Company anticipates that the project’s actual emission reductions will be materially lower than previously expected due to methodological changes and declining prices, which have reduced forecasted creditable unit deployments. Concerns over emissions reduction overestimation, additionality, and verification challenges have raised questions about cookstove credit quality, prompting methodological revisions as the market adapts to evolving buyer expectations. While these changes aim to enhance credibility, they have also reduced demand and driven down prices.

    Nalgonda Rice Farming Stream: In December 2024, the Company delivered a notice to Core CarbonX Pte. Ltd. and its services provider, Core CarbonX Solutions Private Limited that an event of default occurred and is continuing due to the failure of the project to reach development completion prior to June 30, 2024. While no further action has been taken at this time, the Company reserves all rights under its agreements.

    The project was registered with Verra on February 10, 2025, using the UNFCCC Clean Development Mechanism Methodology AMS-III.AU: Methane emission reduction by adjusted water management practice in rice cultivation in the VCS program (“AMS-III.AU”). Registration and first validation of the project was delayed when Verra temporarily inactivated AMS-III.AU as part of a broader review of validation and verification quality and began developing a revised rice-specific methodology to replace AMS-III.AU. During this review, Verra determined that certain projects identified as having quality issues with validations and/or verifications would remain on hold, but Core CarbonX’s projects, including the Nalgonda Rice Farming project, were approved for registration under AMS-III.AU.

    Verra released the new VCS Methodology VM0051 (Improved Management in Rice Production Systems v1.0) on February 27, 2025, which the project plans to transition to for the second monitoring period. However, the project has already applied the guidelines required under the VCS Methodology VM0051. At this time, it is not known how the transition to the new methodology will impact the project, if at all.

    As of December 31, 2024, approximately 32,000 landholders were enrolled in the project, covering 36,548 hectares of farmland. Enrollment remains ongoing, with a target of expanding to approximately 62,000 hectares. However, progress has been slower than expected due to registration delays, which have also postponed farmer compensation and, in turn, affected enrollment. The project was registered with Verra on February 10, 2025.

    Enfield Biochar Stream: In April 2024, Standard Biocarbon Corporation (“Standard Biocarbon”) achieved its first biochar production. However, technical challenges have delayed the commissioning process. Standard Biocarbon is working with PYREG GmbH, the engineer and builder of the PYREG Machines, to resolve these issues as it scales toward full operating capacity. The project continues to collect operational data required for a facility audit and official registration with the Puro.earth carbon credit standard. Currently, the project is on care and maintenance while seeking additional funding to support commissioning, the initial facility audit, and the first output audit.

    Azuero Reforestation Stream: On May 21, 2024, the Company, Microsoft Corporation and Rubicon Carbon Capital LLC (“Rubicon”) entered into a carbon credit streaming agreement, as amended on November 23, 2024 (the “Azuero Reforestation Stream”) with Azuero Reforestation Colectiva, S.A. (“ARC”), a wholly owned subsidiary of Ponterra Ltd. (“Ponterra”), for a reforestation project located on Azuero Province, Los Santos Province, Republic of Panama. Under the terms of the Azuero Reforestation Stream, ARC will deliver 13.5% of the carbon credits created by the project to the Company. Additionally, Microsoft Corporation has entered into an offtake agreement to purchase 100% of the Company’s carbon credits delivered under the terms of the Azuero Reforestation Stream through to 2040. Carbon Streaming will also act as the sole marketer of ARC’s carbon credits not already committed to the co-investors under the Azuero Reforestation Stream.

    Under the terms of the Azuero Reforestation Stream, Carbon Streaming, alongside Rubicon and Microsoft Corporation, will fund 100% of project costs over seven years. The Company agreed to make an upfront deposit of up to $7.1 million with $0.3 million paid on closing, and additional milestone payments made as the project achieves planting and sapling survival milestones, and will receive 13.5% of total credits, which is expected to be approximately 438,000 carbon credits through 2052.

    Sheep Creek Reforestation Stream: In January 2025, the Company received a Notice of Adverse Impact from Mast Reforestation SPV I, LLC (“Mast”) and the parent company of Mast, Droneseed Co. d/b/a Mast Reforestation under the Sheep Creek Reforestation Stream pursuant to which, among other things, Mast advised the Company that the Sheep Creek project has experienced significantly higher than expected mortality rates and that the surviving seedlings had exhibited slower than expected growth rates. As a result, Mast indicated to the Company that it no longer expects to deliver the Company the agreed-upon 286,229 carbon removal credits, referred to as forecast mitigation units (“FMUs”) under the Climate Action Reserve’s Climate Forward program under the Sheep Creek Reforestation Stream, as Mast no longer considers the existing Sheep Creek project plan and budget to be viable. The Company has formally responded to the Notice of Adverse Impact and requested that Mast respond to the Company’s significant concerns regarding, among other things, the timing of the delivery of the Notice of Adverse Impact, and the characterization of the cause of the adverse impact. The Company is continuing to evaluate all legal avenues available under the Sheep Creek Reforestation Stream. As a result, the Company no longer anticipates generating cash flow from the Sheep Creek Reforestation Stream and has determined its fair value to be $nil as of December 31, 2024.

    Feather River Reforestation Stream: In 2024, carbon credit market demand has generally shifted towards lower risk carbon credits. FMUs, which are designed to facilitate forward financing, inherently carry higher risk, leading to supply that has exceeded demand. FMU issuance is expected in 2025. However, given the uncertainties surrounding FMU sales, the Company has determined the fair value of the Feather River Reforestation Stream to be $nil as of December 31, 2024.

    Baccala Ranch Reforestation Stream: In March 2025, Mast delivered the Company a notice of termination of the Baccala Ranch Reforestation Stream and the Baccala Ranch project, thereby confirming it will forego any plantings. The Company had not advanced any funds for the Baccala project and the closing of the Baccala Ranch Reforestation Stream remained subject to customary closing conditions.

    Amazon Portfolio Royalty: Following a corporate reorganization, Future Carbon assigned its interests in the Yellow Ipe, ABC Norte and Gairova projects (collectively the “Ecologica Portfolio”) to Ecological Assessoria Ltda. and its affiliates (collectively “Ecologica”), and retained the Rio Madeira Project, (the “Future Carbon Portfolio”). To reflect this restructuring, the Original Amazon Royalty was replaced on April 17, 2024, by two new royalty agreements: one between the Company and Future Carbon for the Future Carbon Portfolio (the “FC Amazon Royalty”), and another between the Company and Ecologica on the Ecologica Portfolio (the “Ecologica Amazon Royalty”). Each agreement carried a purchase price of $1.5 million, maintaining the original $3.0 million investment. No additional funds were advanced by the Company as part of Future Carbon’s reorganization.

    Bonobo Peace Forest Royalty: The royalty agreement was originally intended to convert into a stream agreement upon successful validation and verification of the project. However, due to political instability in the DRC, weakened market sentiment for REDD+ projects, and a significant decline in demand for REDD+ carbon credits, Carbon Streaming decided to halt further investment. The Company currently has no plans to proceed with a stream agreement.

    The project has been seeking additional investment to support a renewed technical effort for registration under the new Verra VM0048 methodology. Given the material uncertainty surrounding fundraising for REDD+ project development, the early-stage nature of the project’s technical development, and persistent weakness in demand for REDD+ carbon credits, the Company has determined the fair value of the Bonobo Peace Forest Royalty to be $nil as at December 31, 2024.

    Strategy

    Carbon Streaming is currently focused on maximizing value from the existing portfolio of investments and pursuing all options to achieve that goal. During 2024, the Company has undergone changes to the Board and management, including the termination of certain consulting contracts, which reduced ongoing cash expenditure and streamlined decision-making. The Company continues to focus on its previously announced evaluation of strategic alternatives with a focus on maximizing value for all shareholders. These alternatives could include acquisitions, divestments, corporate transactions, financings, other strategic partnership opportunities or continuing to operate as a public company.

    The Company’s carbon credit streaming agreements are structured to retain a portion of the cash flows from carbon credit sales, with stream-specific retention varying. Project partners typically receive the balance through ongoing delivery payments under the terms of each agreement. Cash flows are subject to fluctuations based on realized carbon credit prices and agreement terms. As the Company continues to evaluate its strategic direction, it remains focused on optimizing portfolio economics and managing exposure to market volatility.

    Outlook

    Carbon Streaming continues to reposition itself for success and for maximizing shareholder value amid ongoing challenges. In May 2024, as part of its ongoing corporate restructuring first initiated in 2023, the Company announced changes to its senior management and Board after constructive discussions with certain shareholders. The Company continues to evaluate strategic alternatives for the business and remains focused on cash flow optimization through the reduction of operating expenses and a reassessment of its existing streams and royalties. Building on the previous measures implemented by the Company to reduce ongoing operating expenses, further steps have been taken in recent months, including significantly reducing employee headcount, renegotiating and amending vendor agreements to lower costs, eliminating cash-settled director’s fees to the Board and terminating certain consulting contracts. As the Company’s broader strategy continues to evolve, these recent steps are expected to result in significant reductions to annualized ongoing operating expenses when compared to 2024.

    While the Company aims to increase cash flow generation through the sale of carbon credits from several streaming agreements over the next year, there remains ongoing uncertainty regarding the evolving nature of carbon markets, including potential registry delays, project-specific issues, and methodology-related risks, in addition to impacts the industry may face as a result of general economic, political and regulatory conditions. In 2024, the Company has recognized a decrease in the fair values of the Rimba Raya Stream, the Magdalena Bay Blue Carbon Stream, the Sustainable Community Stream, and the Sheep Creek Reforestation Stream to $nil as a result of the failure of the respective projects to meet their obligations under the stream agreements and ongoing legal disputes. The Company is actively pursuing all available legal remedies to protect its investments and enforce its contractual rights. Given the multiple ongoing litigation matters, the outcomes remain uncertain and could materially impact the Company’s financial position and strategic direction. Please refer to the “Legal Proceedings” section of the Company’s most recently filed MD&A for further information.

    Given the evolving nature of carbon markets and ongoing legal considerations, Carbon Streaming is focussed on maximizing value from the existing portfolio of investments and pursuing all options to achieve that goal.

    For a comprehensive discussion of the risks, assumptions and uncertainties that could impact the Company’s strategy and outlook, including without limitation, changes in demand for carbon credits and Indonesian developments described herein, investors are urged to review the section of the Company’s most recently filed AIF entitled “Risk Factors” a copy of which is available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

    2024 Results Conference Call Details

    The Company’s management team will host a conference call on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. ET to provide a brief company update. Participants may join by dialing +1 289-514-5100 or toll free from North America at +1 800-717-1738. A replay of the conference call will be available on the Company website until 11:59 p.m. ET on May 1, 2025.

    About Carbon Streaming

    Carbon Streaming’s focus is on projects that generate high-quality carbon credits and have a positive impact on the environment, local communities, and biodiversity, in addition to their carbon reduction or removal potential. This approach aligns our strategic interests with those of project partners to create long-term relationships built on a shared commitment to sustainability and accountability and positions us as a trusted source for buyers seeking high-quality carbon credits.

    ON BEHALF OF THE COMPANY:
    Marin Katusa, Chief Executive Officer
    Tel: 365.607.6095
    info@carbonstreaming.com
    www.carbonstreaming.com

    Investor Relations
    investors@carbonstreaming.com

    Media
    media@carbonstreaming.com

    Non-IFRS Accounting Standards Measures

    Adjusted Net Loss and Adjusted Loss Per Share

    The term “adjusted net loss” in this news release is not a standardized financial measure under the IFRS Accounting Standards and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies where similar terminology is used. These non-IFRS Accounting Standards measures should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance, cash flows and financial position as prepared in accordance with the IFRS Accounting Standards. Management believes that these non-IFRS Accounting Standards measures, together with performance measures and measures prepared in accordance with the IFRS Accounting Standards, provide useful information to investors and shareholders in assessing the Company’s liquidity and overall performance.

    Adjusted net loss is calculated as net and comprehensive loss and adjusted for the revaluation of carbon credit streaming and royalty agreements, the revaluation of warrant liabilities, the impairment loss on early deposit interest receivable, the revaluation of derivative liabilities, the revaluation of the convertible note, the impairment loss on investment in associate, the gain on dissolution of associate, and the corporate restructuring which the Company views as having a significant non-cash or non-continuing impact on the Company’s net and comprehensive loss calculation and per share amounts. Adjusted net loss is used by the Company to monitor its results from operations for the period.

    The following table reconciles net and comprehensive (loss) income to adjusted net loss:

      Three months ended 
    December 31, 2024
      Three months ended 
    December 31, 2023
      Year ended
    December 31, 2024
      Year ended
    December 31, 2023
     
    Net loss and comprehensive loss $ (16,932)   $ (26,092)   $ (67,369)   $ (35,501)  
    Adjustment for non-continuing or non-cash settled items:        
    Revaluation of carbon credit streaming and royalty agreements   13,190     23,952     58,155     32,897  
    Revaluation of warrant liabilities   (43)     (79)     (642)     (6,530)  
    Impairment of early deposit interest receivable   –     –     307     –  
    Revaluation of derivative liabilities   –     –     (680)     (686)  
    Revaluation of Convertible Note   –     –     –     (558)  
    Revaluation of preferred shares   2,558     –     2,558     –  
    Impairment of investment in associate   –     –     –     1,044  
    Gain on dissolution of associate   –     –     (104)     –  
    Corporate restructuring   343     (6)     2,561     1,748  
    Adjusted net loss   (884)     (2,225)     (5,214)     (7,586)  
    Loss per share (Basic and Diluted) ($/share)   (0.32)     (0.55)     (1.34)     (0.75)  
    Adjusted net loss per share (Basic and Diluted) ($/share)   (0.02)     (0.05)     (0.10)     (0.16)  
                             

    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

    This news release contains certain forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, “forward-looking information”) within the meaning of applicable securities laws. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, that address activities, events or developments that the Company believes, expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future, are forward-looking information, including, without limitation, statements regarding the anticipated impact of changes to the Company’s Board and management; the impact of the Company’s restructuring strategies, including evaluation of strategic alternatives; the ability of the Company to execute on expense reductions and savings from operating cost reduction measures; statements with respect to cash flow optimization and generation; its sales strategy; supporting the Company’s carbon streaming and royalty partners; timing and the amount of future carbon credit generation and emission reductions and removals from the Company’s existing streaming and royalty agreements; statements with respect to the projects in which the Company has streaming and royalty agreements in place; statements with respect to the Company’s growth objectives and potential and its position in the voluntary carbon markets; statements with respect to execution of the Company’s portfolio and partnership strategy; statements with respect to the ongoing legal process to protect the Company’s investment in the Rimba Raya project and to enforce its legal and contractual rights; statements ; and statements regarding the Company’s intention to strictly enforce its legal and contractual rights under the Sustainable Community Stream and the Magdalena Bay Blue Carbon Stream and the Sheep Creek Reforestation Stream.

    When used in this news release, words such as “estimates”, “expects”, “plans”, “anticipates”, “will”, “believes”, “intends” “should”, “could”, “may” and other similar terminology are intended to identify such forward-looking information. This forward-looking information is based on the current expectations or beliefs of the Company based on information currently available to the Company. Forward-looking information is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that may cause the actual results of the Company to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking information, and even if such actual results are realized or substantially realized, there can be no assurance that they will have the expected consequences to, or effects on, the Company. They should not be read as a guarantee of future performance or results, and will not necessarily be an accurate indication of whether or not such results will be achieved. Factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from current expectations include, among other things: general economic, market and business conditions and global financial conditions, including fluctuations in interest rates, foreign exchange rates and stock market volatility; volatility in prices of carbon credits and demand for carbon credits; change in social or political views towards climate change, carbon credits and environmental, social and governance initiatives and subsequent changes in corporate or government policies or regulations and associated changes in demand for carbon credits; the Company’s expectations and plans with respect to current litigation, arbitration and regulatory proceedings; limited operating history for the Company’s current strategy; concentration risk; inaccurate estimates of project value, which may impact the ability of the Company to execute on its growth and diversification strategy; dependence upon key management; impact of corporate restructurings; the inability of the Company to optimize cash flows or sufficiently reduce operating expenses; reputational risk; risks arising from competition and future acquisition activities failure or timing delays for projects to be registered, validated and ultimately developed and for emission reductions or removals to be verified and carbon credits issued (and other risks associated with carbon credits standards and registries); foreign operations and political risks including actions by governmental authorities, including changes in or to government regulation, taxation and carbon pricing initiatives; uncertainties and ongoing market developments surrounding the validation and verification requirements of the voluntary and/or compliance markets; due diligence risks, including failure of third parties’ reviews, reports and projections to be accurate; dependence on project partners, operators and owners, including failure by such counterparties to make payments or perform their operational or other obligations to the Company in compliance with the terms of contractual arrangements between the Company and such counterparties; failure of projects to generate carbon credits, or natural disasters such as flood or fire which could have a material adverse effect on the ability of any project to generate carbon credits; volatility in the market price of the Company’s common shares or warrants; the effect that the issuance of additional securities by the Company could have on the market price of the Company’s common shares or warrants; global health crises, such as pandemics and epidemics; and the other risks disclosed under the heading “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in the Company’s Annual Information Form dated as of March 31, 2025 filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

    Any forward-looking information speaks only as of the date of this news release. Although the Company believes that the assumptions inherent in the forward-looking information are reasonable, forward-looking information is not a guarantee of future performance and accordingly undue reliance should not be put on such statements due to the inherent uncertainty therein. Except as may be required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise.

    The MIL Network –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Economics: Gender in Focus: African Development Bank’s support ignites the entrepreneurial spirit within Zimbabwean women

    Source: African Development Bank Group

    Turning Crisis into Opportunity: How Two Zimbabwean Women Entrepreneurs Are Building Thriving Businesses

    When the Covid-19 pandemic brought much of the world to a standstill, Yollanda Mambeu saw an opportunity in the crisis. Amid the strict lockdowns that shuttered countless businesses, she launched her dream venture —a cake shop in a high-density suburb of Mutare, Zimbabwe’s third-largest city.

    Since then, her ovens have rarely cooled. What began as a modest baking business has expanded into a thriving enterprise. Today, Mambeu supplies a wide range of baking products and accessories, from cake-making tools and spices to balloon stands, cake toppers, and edible image printing. She also offers baking lessons to aspiring entrepreneurs, aged 20 to 40, in smaller towns around Mutare.

    Mambeu now earns an average of $4,000 in monthly profit, with peaks of up to $5,000 during national holidays and festive periods. She attributes her success to training received under the Sustainable Enterprise Development of Women and Youth – Business Growth for Young Entrepreneurs project, funded by the African Development Bank. The programme, which promotes entrepreneurship and job creation, has reached 984 beneficiaries to date—over 68% of them women.

    Mambeu took part in two key training programmes: Sustainable and Resilient Enterprise and Improve Your Business, both funded by the Bank’s Youth Innovation and Entrepreneurship Multi-Donor Trust Fund and delivered by the International Labour Organization (ILO) in partnership with the Government of Zimbabwe.

    “Before the training, I struggled with market visibility and branding,” she said. “I learned how to position my business, and now everything is branded—from shop windows to refrigerators. People immediately know what we offer. That change boosted our monthly profits from $1,000 to $4,000.”

    In January 2024, Mambeu formally registered her business as Yoyo’s Yummy Cakes and Baking Supplies and began advertising on local radio. The strategy paid off—by September, her customer base had quadrupled to 1,200 clients.

    Her growing brand has attracted the attention of large corporates. One of Zimbabwe’s largest milk producers appointed her as a brand ambassador, supplying her with baking milk. She now provides confectioneries to a commercial bank, the national revenue authority, and a local NGO, among other clients. To meet rising demand, she invested $2,500 in heavy-duty baking equipment and is planning to open both a bakery and a wholesale outlet.

    Mambeu’s story is echoed by Violet Mhute, a 44-year-old entrepreneur based in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe’s second-largest city. Like Mambeu, she benefited from Bank-supported training—this time to help women entrepreneurs break into the male-dominated leather industry.

    Mhute founded Soko Genuine Leather in 2008 but initially struggled to establish herself in Zimbabwe’s $32 million leather sector. For years, she exported semi-processed hides to South Africa and the UK for low returns. Now, her business boasts a catalogue of high-quality leather goods—shoes, sandals, wallets, and belts—sold across Africa and beyond.

    “Entering the leather industry as a woman was tough. Accessing the right information was a constant battle,” Mhute said. “But the training gave me the tools and confidence to navigate those challenges.”

    With support from the African Development Bank and government policies that support local value addition, Mhute shifted from exporting raw materials to selling premium finished products. Her goods are now certified by the Standards Association of Zimbabwe, enabling her to participate in international expos and tap into new markets, including the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region and the UK.

    She was also trained on how to expand her business under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework. The impact has been significant: monthly profits rose from $800 to $3,100.

    Violet Mhute, founder of Soko Genuine Leather, a leather production company.

    Mhute says she now employs five young people in her growing leather business.

    Dr. Martha Phiri, Director of Human Capital, Youth and Skills Development at the African Development Bank, says the success stories of Mambeu and Mhute reflect the Bank’s sustained commitment to private sector development—particularly micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs).

    “These efforts prioritize inclusion, with targeted support for underserved groups such as women and youth, ensuring equitable access to resources and opportunities,” said Phiri. “Through the Bank’s initiatives, we empower women entrepreneurs by providing technical assistance, skills training, and business development support.”

    Both Mambeu and Mhute say they are optimistic about the future and aim to grow their businesses further while creating jobs for others.

    “My dream goes beyond expanding my business,” said Mhute. “I want to establish an entrepreneurship institute that will help others break through the barriers in male-dominated industries—just as I have.”

    Since its launch in 2017, the Youth Entrepreneurship and Innovation Multi-Donor Trust Fund has been a key catalyst for entrepreneurs like Mambeu and Mhute. The fund supports the African Development Bank’s Jobs for Youth in Africa Strategy, providing grants to empower youth-led start-ups and MSMEs operating in both the formal and informal sectors.

    MIL OSI Economics –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: LeddarTech to Demonstrate Advanced ADAS Sensor Fusion and Perception Solutions at Auto Shanghai 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    QUEBEC CITY, Canada, April 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LeddarTech® Holdings Inc. (“LeddarTech”) (Nasdaq: LDTC), an automotive software company that provides patented disruptive AI-powered low-level sensor fusion and perception software technology, LeddarVision™, for ADAS, AD and parking applications, announces its participation at Auto Shanghai 2025, taking place from April 23 to May 2, 2025.

    LeddarTech will be exhibiting at Booth # 1BG040 in Hall 1.2, where its team will engage with customers and industry partners to discuss its latest advancements in sensor fusion and perception technology. Attendees will also have the chance to take a live demonstration ride in the LeddarNavigator, LeddarTech’s demo vehicle equipped with LeddarVision. This AI-driven low-level sensor fusion software enhances object detection, improves situational awareness and optimizes driving automation. The demo ride offers a firsthand experience of how LeddarVision enhances ADAS performance and vehicle safety in real-world scenarios.

    At Auto Shanghai 2025, LeddarTech will showcase its latest low-level sensor fusion innovations, powered by the Texas Instruments (TI) TDA4 processor platform. LeddarTech and TI’s collaboration optimizes performance and cost, addressing key challenges in the Chinese automotive market, such as the development of “see-through” perception solutions and efficient 5V5R sensor configurations for highway “Navigate on Autopilot” (NoA) applications.

    “China is one of the fastest-growing markets for ADAS and AD technology, and we are excited to showcase how LeddarTech’s scalable and cost-efficient perception solutions help OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers achieve enhanced safety and driving intelligence,” said Clive Szeto, Senior Director of Sales and Business Development, Asia at LeddarTech. “Our collaboration with Texas Instruments and our industry-leading low-level sensor fusion technology make LeddarTech a key enabler of next-generation ADAS solutions in China and beyond.”

    Join us at Auto Shanghai 2025 to experience the future of ADAS technology firsthand. Visit LeddarTech at Booth #1BG040, schedule a meeting with our team or learn more on LeddarTech’s website.

    About LeddarTech

    A global software company founded in 2007 and headquartered in Quebec City with additional R&D centers in Montreal and Tel Aviv, Israel, LeddarTech develops and provides comprehensive AI-based low-level sensor fusion and perception software solutions that enable the deployment of ADAS, autonomous driving (AD) and parking applications. LeddarTech’s automotive-grade software applies advanced AI and computer vision algorithms to generate accurate 3D models of the environment to achieve better decision making and safer navigation. This high-performance, scalable, cost-effective technology is available to OEMs and Tier 1-2 suppliers to efficiently implement automotive and off-road vehicle ADAS solutions.

    LeddarTech is responsible for several remote-sensing innovations, with over 170 patent applications (87 granted) that enhance ADAS, AD and parking capabilities. Better awareness around the vehicle is critical in making global mobility safer, more efficient, sustainable and affordable: this is what drives LeddarTech to seek to become the most widely adopted sensor fusion and perception software solution.

    Additional information about LeddarTech is accessible at www.leddartech.com and on LinkedIn, Twitter (X), Facebook and YouTube.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Certain statements contained in this Press Release may be considered forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (which forward-looking statements also include forward-looking statements and forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws), including, but not limited to, statements relating to LeddarTech’s anticipated strategy, future operations, prospects, objectives and financial projections and other financial metrics. Forward-looking statements generally include statements that are predictive in nature and depend upon or refer to future events or conditions, and include words such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “would,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “likely,” “believe,” “estimate,” “project,” “intend” and other similar expressions among others. Statements that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on current beliefs and assumptions that are subject to risks and uncertainties and are not guarantees of future performance. Actual results could differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement as a result of various factors, including, without limitation: (i) our ability to continue to maintain compliance with Nasdaq continued listing standards following our transfer to the Nasdaq Capital Market; (ii) our ability to timely access sufficient capital and financing on favorable terms or at all; (iii) our ability to maintain compliance with our debt covenants, including our ability to enter into any forbearance agreements, waivers or amendments with, or obtain other relief from, our lenders as needed; (iv) our ability to execute on our business model, achieve design wins and generate meaningful revenue; (v) our ability to successfully commercialize our product offering at scale, whether through the collaboration agreement with Texas Instruments, a collaboration with a Tier 2 supplier or otherwise; (vi) changes in our strategy, future operations, financial position, estimated revenues and losses, projected costs and plans; (vii) changes in general economic and/or industry-specific conditions; (viii) our ability to retain, attract and hire key personnel; (ix) potential adverse changes to relationships with our customers, employees, suppliers or other parties; (x) legislative, regulatory and economic developments; (xi) the outcome of any known and unknown litigation and regulatory proceedings; (xii) unpredictability and severity of catastrophic events, including, but not limited to, acts of terrorism, outbreak of war or hostilities and any epidemic, pandemic or disease outbreak, as well as management’s response to any of the aforementioned factors; and (xiii) other risk factors as detailed from time to time in LeddarTech’s reports filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), including the risk factors contained in LeddarTech’s Form 20-F filed with the SEC. The foregoing list of important factors is not exhaustive. Except as required by applicable law, LeddarTech does not undertake any obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statement, or to make any other forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Contact:
    Maram Fityani, Media and Public Relations, LeddarTech Holdings Inc.
    Tel.: + 1-418-653-9000 ext. 623, maram.fityani@leddartech.com

    Leddar, LeddarTech, LeddarVision, LeddarSP, VAYADrive, VayaVision and related logos are trademarks or registered trademarks of LeddarTech Holdings Inc. and its subsidiaries. All other brands, product names and marks are or may be trademarks or registered trademarks used to identify products or services of their respective owners.

    LeddarTech Holdings Inc. is a public company listed on the Nasdaq under the ticker symbol “LDTC.”

    The MIL Network –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: RI Delegation Demands CDC Reinstate Public Health Funding

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed

    WASHINGTON, DC – In an effort to restore and release $31.2 million in promised federal public health funding for Rhode Island that was terminated earlier this week by the Trump Administration, U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse and Congressmen Seth Magaziner and Gabe Amo today sent a letter to U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. demanding that the bipartisan approved funding be delivered to the state as intended by the law.

    The Trump Administration is seeking to claw back $11.4 billion in public health funding for state and local health departments across the nation.  In Rhode Island, the Trump Administration cancelled four Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) grants totaling $31.2 million that support the state’s post-pandemic initiatives.  

    Despite the CDC’s claim that these funds were being pulled back because the pandemic ended, the federal grants are designed to help states better respond to future public health emergencies.

    “Earlier this week, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) terminated this funding, leaving the State of Rhode Island without $31.2 million in promised federal funding, which will cripple its efforts to head off future disease outbreaks,” the delegation wrote. “This funding was critical to saving lives and keeping the health care system afloat in unprecedented circumstances,” the delegation continued.  “Funding was also provided to address the many systemic weaknesses in our public health infrastructure, strengthening our capacity to respond to future disease outbreaks, protect vulnerable populations, and improve communications with the public. Regrettably, CDC’s decision to terminate these funds will undermine these efforts, and Rhode Island’s public health system will be degraded.”

    Rhode Island’s Congressional delegation also called attention to the significant impacts that not restoring this critical federal funding will have on the Ocean State’s public health, public safety, and the economy, specifically around the Rhode Island Department Health’s new $82 million state-of-the-art public health laboratory.

    “The new Rhode Island State Health Laboratory will be a crucial piece of the puzzle in investigating and mitigating life-threatening diseases. It will also provide important services for State and municipal agencies to ensure the safety of drinking water and food products; monitor pollution of air and water; and aid public safety and criminal investigations through police officer training, DNA testing, and illegal drug identification,” the delegation noted. “While work on the building will continue, its ability to provide the scope of services Rhode Island needs will be limited because the CDC is cutting over $15 million in funding that will help staff the facility and equip it with the latest testing capabilities.”

    Full text of the letter follows:

    March 28, 2025

    Honorable Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.

    Secretary

    U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

    200 Independence Ave SW

    Washington, D.C. 20201

    Dear Secretary Kennedy:

    We write to urge you to reinstate funding awarded to help Rhode Island and other states to rebuild and strengthen their public health preparedness in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

    Earlier this week, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) terminated this funding, leaving the State of Rhode Island without $31.2 million in promised federal funding, which will cripple its efforts to head off future disease outbreaks.

    On a bipartisan basis, Congress provided significant funding over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic in order to help states and health care organizations provide testing, treatment, and vaccines – among other efforts. This funding was critical to saving lives and keeping the health care system afloat in unprecedented circumstances. Funding was also provided to address the many systemic weaknesses in our public health infrastructure, strengthening our capacity to respond to future disease outbreaks, protect vulnerable populations, and improve communications with the public. Regrettably, CDC’s decision to terminate these funds will undermine these efforts, and Rhode Island’s public health system will be degraded.

    Last year, the Rhode Island Department of Health, working with community and industry partners, broke ground on a new $82 million state-of-the-art public health laboratory to replace its existing dilapidated laboratory facility. The new Rhode Island State Health Laboratory will be a crucial piece of the puzzle in investigating and mitigating life-threatening diseases. It will also provide important services for State and municipal agencies to ensure the safety of drinking water and food products; monitor pollution of air and water; and aid public safety and criminal investigations through police officer training, DNA testing, and illegal drug identification. While work on the building will continue, its ability to provide the scope of services Rhode Island needs will be limited because the CDC is cutting over $15 million in funding that will help staff the facility and equip it with the latest testing capabilities.

    The CDC cuts announced this week would also cancel $13 million in funding for Rhode Island to improve the state’s vaccine infrastructure through campaigns to promote vaccine uptake, partnerships with community organizations to encourage vaccination, and ensuring safe vaccine storage. The recent measles outbreak, including one case in Rhode Island, demonstrates the need for continued vigilance in this area. Similarly, funding for programs addressing health disparities and expanding access to community health workers has been cut. Each of these efforts is an important tool in improving our public health infrastructure and better preparing us for the next public health emergency. It would be pennywise and pound-foolish to claw back the federal investment in this work.

    Again, we urge you to reverse course immediately and to restore this critical funding. Thank you for your attention to this request, and we look forward to your prompt response.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: 100 million milestone leaves NZ increasingly isolated

    Source: ACT Party

    “Data collected by Bloomberg shows the milestone of 100 million doses of Covid-19 vaccine administered worldwide has been passed, leaving big questions for the Government about where New Zealand will stand relative to other countries as the worldwide programme continues,” says ACT Leader David Seymour.

    “If the medical regulator gives the all-clear to New Zealand’s first vaccine today it won’t change anything, we still won’t have any vaccine for months.

    “A very effective spin campaign is being waged whereby commentators well-disposed to the Government tell us we should actually be thankful to be at the back of the queue for rolling out coronavirus vaccines.

    “We’re being told we’ve done so well we can afford to wait, but the opposite is true.

    “Despite well publicised issues with supply, there are almost as many people being vaccinated every day across the planet as there are people in New Zealand – 4.25 million in the latest count – and the figure is rising daily.

    “A week ago in was little more than 3 million.

    “Being at the back of the queue for vaccination means being at the back of the queue re-integrating with the countries we want to travel to, trade with and invest in.

    “It’s inevitable that by the middle of the year there will be essentially open borders between the countries that have moved fastest to vaccinate, and that network will grow exponentially.

    “A Covid-19 vaccination passport will become your ticket to freedom, yet New Zealanders are going to be forced to watch on, locked down in a largely Covid free country.

    “Just how is that a good outcome?

    “Shouldn’t our Government have done a better job of prioritising our recovery from the pandemic?”

    ENDS

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: 24 day isolation rule non-announcement unprofessional and unworkable

    Source: ACT Party

    “New COVID isolation rules for Omicron are unworkable, and the way they were dumped on the Ministry of Health website on a Friday afternoon is unprofessional,” says ACT Leader David Seymour.

    “Late on Friday, rules appeared on the Ministry of Health website to the effect that a person who tests positive must isolate for 14 days, and household members must isolate for a further 10 days.

    “The way this has been announced, or rather not announced, echoes the cancellation of the 20 January MIQ lottery. That lottery was cancelled on the website of the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, that was deleted and later confirmed in the form of a tweet. This is not leadership of communication in the middle of a pandemic.

    “A Government prepared for Omicron would make clear announcements, rather than slipping critical details about isolation onto websites on Friday afternoon. Instead they have buried the rules on the Ministry of Health website with no formal announcement.

    “The rules announced are unworkable, they will lead to a domino effect where a household can be down for a month. The Ministry of Health website says ‘The isolation period for COVID-19 cases in the community is at least 14 days, including 72 hours symptom-free,’ and ‘Your household members will need to remain in isolation for at least 10 days after you have been released as a case. This means they will need to be in isolation for longer than you as the case will [sic].’

    “The effect is that if you test positive, members of your household may have to isolate for 24 days. People who cannot afford that will have a strong incentive not to get tested, defeating the purpose of the policy. If the advice is taken seriously, it will cripple the health workforce and supply chains more generally.

    “New Zealand’s advantage with COVID is that we can learn from other countries, but we are doing the opposite here. Other countries are loosening their isolation requirements to keep hospitals opening and supermarkets shelves full, but we are tightening ours.

    “By contrast, isolation rules in the UK were changed on Monday so that all people in the household of a case can leave isolation after five days if they have negative tests on two consecutive days. They have done this because their previous isolation rules devastated supply chains.

    “In New South Wales, cases are required to isolate for 14 days but critical workers can leave earlier. Unlike New Zealand, New South Wales does not automatically deem household members as close contacts and require them to isolate. It allows people to use their judgement.

    “The Government badly needs to front on this issue. It needs to explain why these rules are put in place, and why it believes the benefits of an isolation regime stricter than any other country bar China is justified. It should release the modelling it has relied on in an open and transparent way, the way this Government once promised to act.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Fighting for Senior Healthcare

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Diana Harshbarger (R-TN)

    WASHINGTON — Today, Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) and Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL) reintroduced the bipartisan Seniors’ Access to Critical Medications Act.

    The legislation would extend a waiver issued by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) for 5 years, which allowed Medicare patients to receive essential medications by mail or have caregivers and family members pick them up on their behalf.

    During the COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE), CMS permitted independent physicians to mail medications directly to Medicare patients or have them delivered by a caregiver or family member if the patient was unable to visit the office in person. This decision has since been reversed, resulting in those with serious conditions like cancer—now facing significant challenges in obtaining their prescribed medications promptly.

    For patients in rural areas, traveling to a doctor’s office can mean an arduous journey, particularly for those without reliable transportation or who are too ill to travel safely. This legislation would ensure they can continue receiving medications by mail or through those responsible for their care.

    Rep. Harshbarger issued the following statement:

    “My district in East Tennessee is extremely rural, so for many folks, getting to their healthcare specialist or a pharmacy to pick up a prescription is difficult enough as it is. Now imagine having to undergo this task if you’re elderly with cancer.

    “The ability to be able to mail these crucial medications to our most vulnerable was one of the few silver linings that came out of the COVID-19 pandemic, and it’s our responsibility as lawmakers to make the lives of our most vulnerable easier, not more difficult. This legislation accomplishes just that.”

    Congresswoman Wasserman Schultz said the following.

    “Increasing access to care is vital, and few places is it more important than for cancer survivors. As a breast cancer survivor, I know the difficult realities that patients, their families, and caregivers face along their journey of survivorship – and my goal is to remove as many as possible,” said Congresswoman Wasserman Schultz. “The Seniors’ Access to Critical Medications Act, which I am proud to co-lead with Rep. Harshbarger, will pull down another obstacle for survivors to access the drugs they need. Our legislation would make it clear that physicians can deliver medicines to their patients by mail without fear of violating federal law, ensuring Medicare beneficiaries have timely access to them. Seniors, cancer survivors, and many others should not have to face additional hurdles to receiving the care and treatment they need, when they need it.

    To view statements of support from original cosponsors and advocacy groups, click HERE.

    To view a summary of the bill, click HERE.

    Click HERE to view the bill text.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: March 28th, 2025 Heinrich Reintroduces Legislation to Leverage AI For Pandemic Preparedness and Response

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Founder and Co-Chair of the Senate Artificial Intelligence (AI) Caucus, reintroduced the MedShield Act of 2025 alongside Co-Chair of the Senate AI Caucus, Senator Mike Rounds (R-S.D.). This legislation would implement a recommendation of the National Security Commission on AI to create a program titled MedShield to leverage AI for national pandemic preparedness and response.

    MedShield would be the United States’ “shield” to protect the nation against future pandemics. MedShield would foster collaboration between the public and private sectors as well as with global allies and partners. The program would leverage AI to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of U.S. pandemic prevention and response across five key areas:

    • Vaccine development

    • Therapeutic development

    “AI holds amazing potential to supercharge major scientific and medical advances – including our ability to anticipate and address the next public health crisis,” said Heinrich, Founder and Co-Chair of the Senate AI Caucus. “By leveraging AI’s potential, our Medshield Act will ensure we are more prepared for the emergence of new biological threats to mitigate the next pandemic.”

    “Artificial intelligence gives us the opportunity to completely revolutionize health care as we know it, including when it comes to rapid response to pandemics,” said Rounds. “The MedShield program would utilize artificial intelligence to help the U.S. identify pathogens that pose pandemic threats and work quickly to develop necessary protections. We can leverage artificial intelligence not only to improve the quality of life for Americans, but to literally save lives and taxpayer dollars. We need to take steps now to effectively respond to pandemic threats.”

    The legislation includes:

    • Findings and a Sense of Congress addressing the nation’s need to be better prepared for a pandemic, noting the National Security Commission on Artificial Intelligence (NSCAI) recommendation and the need to avoid an initiative such as Operation Warp Speed for the next pandemic.

    Read the full bill text here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Leads Letter To AG Bondi On Appointment Of Kash Patel As ATF Acting Director

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
    March 31, 2025
    Durbin, Senators to AG Bondi: “Mr. Patel is, quite simply, not the right person to lead the ATF.”
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today led 15 Senate Democrats in a letter to U.S. Attorney General (AG) Pam Bondi inquiring into what policies and procedures she will commit to implementing in her capacity as AG to ensure that the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) will continue to meaningfully function in its intended capacity under Kash Patel’s stewardship.
    In February, President Trump announced that Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Kash Patel would also serve as Acting Director of ATF, the primary federal law enforcement agency responsible foraddressing gun-related crime and violence in America. However, the Senators’ letter to AG Bondi argues that Mr. Patel threatens to undo the significant gains made in recent years to ensure Americans’ safety as he lacks the relevant experience to lead ATF and has ties to the gun industry.
    “As the primary federal law enforcement agency dedicated to curbing illegal firearm use and enforcing federal firearms laws and regulations, it is critical that ATF be led by an experienced Director who has been confirmed by the Senate for this role and is dedicated to upholding the agency’s mission. For the reasons outlined below, Mr. Patel is not that person,” the Senators wrote. “We therefore write to inquire into what policies and procedures you will implement to ensure that ATF will continue to meaningfully function in its intended capacity.”
    Gun violence in the United States is a public health crisis. In 2024, the U.S. Surgeon General issued an advisory listing firearm violence—including homicide, suicide, nonfatal injuries, and unintentional injuries and deaths—as a “significant public health challenge[] that require[s] the nation’s immediate awareness and action.” Though under the Trump Administration, the Surgeon General has since removed the advisory, the report analyzed data from 2002 to 2022, finding that since 2020 the leading cause of death for children and adolescents in America has been gun violence, with rates higher than car crashes, poisoning, and cancer. In 2022 alone, 48,204 people died in the United States of gun-related injuries. 
    That said, following passage of the historic Bipartisan Safer Communities Act and coordinated, nationwide efforts to curb gun violence during the Biden Administration, the United States is starting to see positive results. In 2023, provisional data indicates gun-related deaths totaled 46,728—representing a decline from 2022 by three percent or 1,476 fewer deaths. Violent crime has also declined significantly, due in part to ATF’s data collection, investigation, and enforcement efforts. 
    “While the decrease in violent crime and gun-related deaths is encouraging, 2023 still had ‘the third-highest number of gun-related deaths ever recorded in the United States,’ evidencing that significant challenges to America’s gun violence crisis remain,” the Senators wrote. “The Department of Justice must do everything within its power to sustain this downward trend, including ensuring ATF is empowered to carry out its mandate and keep firearms from falling into the hands of those who should not have them. Now is not the time to pull back on ATF leadership and practices that helped bring about this progress.”
    The Senators’ letter went on to explain why Mr. Patel is not the right person to lead ATF.
    “As an Acting Director, Patel’s appointment has not been subject to Senate confirmation, a crucial process for vetting those nominated by the President for significant leadership roles in the Executive, including ATF Director. Disturbingly, Mr. Patel would not affirm that firearm background checks—a well-established procedure for keeping guns out of the hands of dangerous individuals—are constitutional during his confirmation hearing for FBI Director. Notably, Mr. Patel’s appointment has been applauded by extreme gun advocacy groups seeking to rollback commonsense gun regulations,” the Senators wrote. “Mr. Patel’s appointment threatens to undo the lifesaving progress ATF has made to reduce gun violence in America.”
    The Senators’ letter concludes, “Attorney General Bondi, you have served as a prosecutor for much of your career. During your Senate confirmation hearing, you testified about the importance of keeping Americans safe, prosecuting criminals and gunrunners, reducing recidivism, and enforcing existing gun laws. During one exchange, you assured the Committee: ‘I will do everything in my power to prevent illegal gunrunners in our country.’ In discussing your time as Florida Attorney General and mass shooting responses, you reiterated: ‘I am an advocate for the Second Amendment, but I will enforce the laws of the land.’” 
    To better understand how AG Bondi intends to accomplish these goals, the Senators asked that she promptly respond to a series of questions.
    Along with Durbin, today’s letter was also signed by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).
    Full text of today’s letter is available here and below:
    March 31, 2025
    Dear Attorney General Bondi:
    We write with great concern regarding President Trump’s appointment of Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Kash Patel as Acting Director of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).  As the primary federal law enforcement agency dedicated to curbing illegal firearm use and enforcing federal firearms laws and regulations, it is critical that ATF be led by an experienced Director who has been confirmed by the Senate for this role and is dedicated to upholding the agency’s mission. For the reasons outlined below, Mr. Patel is not that person. We therefore write to inquire into what policies and procedures you will implement to ensure that ATF will continue to meaningfully function in its intended capacity. 
    Gun violence in the United States is a public health crisis. In 2024, the U.S. Surgeon General issued an advisory listing firearm violence—including homicide, suicide, nonfatal injuries, and unintentional injuries and deaths—as a “significant public health challenge[] that require[s] the nation’s immediate awareness and action.”  Analyzing data from 2002 to 2022, the Surgeon General reported that since 2020 the leading cause of death for children and adolescents in America has been gun violence, with rates higher than car crashes, poisoning, and cancer.  In 2022 alone, 48,204 people died in the United States of gun-related injuries. 
    That said, following passage of the historic Bipartisan Safer Communities Act and coordinated, nationwide efforts to curb gun violence during the Biden Administration, we were starting to see positive results. In 2023, provisional data indicates gun-related deaths totaled 46,728—representing a decline from 2022 by three percent or 1,476 fewer deaths.  Violent crime has also declined significantly, due in part to ATF’s data collection, investigation, and enforcement efforts. 
    For example, ATF’s crime gun intelligence tools eTrace, which “is used to trace the purchase and/or use history of firearms used in violent crimes,” and the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network, which “is the only interstate automated ballistic imaging network in operation in the United States,” together “have transformed crime-solving by generating over 1.1 million investigative leads from ballistic evidence and linking suspects to major crimes within hours.”  ATF has also worked to increase DNA matches from cartridge casings and has expanded Crime Gun Intelligence Centers, which use “data-driven strategies” to foster “cross-agency collaboration.”
    ATF has also focused on eliminating firearms trafficking networks that unlawfully smuggle guns from the United States to Mexico, arming dangerous cartels which, in turn, send illicit drugs such as fentanyl into the United States.  And ATF created an Emerging Threats Center, which among other things, has focused on the proliferation of privately-made firearms, or ghost guns, and machine-gun conversion devices, or Glock switches.  These represent only some examples of ATF’s nationwide initiatives to reduce gun violence and keep Americans safe.
    While the decrease in violent crime and gun-related deaths is encouraging, 2023 still had “the third-highest number of gun-related deaths ever recorded in the United States,” evidencing that significant challenges to America’s gun violence crisis remain.  The Department of Justice must do everything within its power to sustain this downward trend, including ensuring ATF is empowered to carry out its mandate and keep firearms from falling into the hands of those who should not have them. Now is not the time to pull back on ATF leadership and practices that helped bring about this progress.
    Mr. Patel is, quite simply, not the right person to lead the ATF. As an Acting Director, Patel’s appointment has not been subject to Senate confirmation, a crucial process for vetting those nominated by the President for significant leadership roles in the Executive, including ATF Director. Disturbingly, Mr. Patel would not affirm that firearm background checks—a well-established procedure for keeping guns out of the hands of dangerous individuals—are constitutional during his confirmation hearing for FBI Director.  Notably, Mr. Patel’s appointment has been applauded by extreme gun advocacy groups seeking to rollback commonsense gun regulations.  Last year, Mr. Patel spoke at the inaugural summit for group Gun Owners of America, a “no-compromise gun lobby” that has announced it “look[s] forward to dismantling gun control with Kash.”  Mr. Patel’s appointment threatens to undo the lifesaving progress ATF has made to reduce gun violence in America.
    Attorney General Bondi, you have served as a prosecutor for much of your career. During your Senate confirmation hearing, you testified about the importance of keeping Americans safe, prosecuting criminals and gunrunners, reducing recidivism, and enforcing existing gun laws.  During one exchange, you assured the Committee: “I will do everything in my power to prevent illegal gunrunners in our country.”  In discussing your time as Florida Attorney General and mass shooting responses, you reiterated: “I am an advocate for the Second Amendment, but I will enforce the laws of the land.”  To better understand how you intend to accomplish these goals, please promptly respond to the following questions:
    Recently, we have seen notable success in curtailing gun violence. While the United States experienced a spike in gun-related crimes and deaths during the pandemic, through bipartisan congressional action and the previous Administration’s efforts, that trend has begun to reverse. Given ATF’s central role in curbing violent crime, it is of paramount importance that the agency be staffed by experienced leaders, agents, and others who support ATF’s core mission, without the appearance of or actual conflict, in order to continue this downward trend. By contrast, firearm-industry personnel advocate for gun companies’ bottom lines by pushing for the repeal of commonsense gun regulations in order to sell more weapons and weapons accessories. Hiring such individuals for critical public-safety positions at ATF would endanger the agency’s core mission and Americans’ safety while prioritizing increases in private company profits.
    Will you place constraints on the hiring of firearm-industry personnel for ATF positions? If not, why?
    ATF must comply with all existing legal obligations. This includes exercising statutorily-required regulatory authority over the firearms industry, fully implementing the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, and complying with the Administrative Procedures Act if changing existing ATF regulations. However, Acting Director Patel lacks experience with ATF’s core responsibilities, including ATF’s regulatory oversight of the gun industry. Moreover, Acting Director Patel was only temporarily appointed under the Vacancies Reform Act and has not been subject to the Senate’s advice and consent process for this role. It is therefore particularly important that you exercise your authority as Attorney General to give final approval of all actions ATF takes under Acting Director Patel’s stewardship, including all policy changes.
    Will you commit to personally reviewing for approval all new or revised ATF policies and actions? If not, why?
    Thank you for your attention to this matter.
    Sincerely,
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Wrap Technologies, Inc. Reports Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2024 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MIAMI, March 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Wrap Technologies, Inc, (NASDAQ: WRAP) (“Wrap” or, the “Company”), a global leader in innovative public safety technologies and non-lethal tools, today announced financial and operating results for the fourth quarter and full year ended December 31, 2024.

    Q4 2024 Financial Results:

    • Revenue increased 47%, from $0.6 million in 2023 to $0.9 million in 2024.
    • Gross Profit improved by $0.7 million, rising from $(0.3) million in 2023 to $0.4million in 2024
    • Total Operating Expenses decreased 21%, from $6.3million in 2023 to $5.0million in 2024
    • Sales, General & Administrative (SG&A) Expenses declined 19%, from $5.8million in 2023 to $4.7million in 2024
    • Net Loss from Operations improved by $10.8million, decreasing from $(18.4) million in 2023 to $(7.6) million in 2024

    2024 Financial Results:

    • Revenue was $4.5 million in 2024, down 27% from $6.1million in 2023.
    • Cost of Revenue decreased 37%, from $3.2million in 2023 to $2.0million in 2024.
    • Gross Margin increased by over 7 percentage points, rising from 47% to over 54%.
    • Operating Loss improved 17%, decreasing from $(18.7) million in 2023 to $(15.6) million in 2024,
    • Net Loss improved 81%, from $(30.2) million in 2023 to $(5.9) million in 2024,

    Recent Operational Highlights:

    • October 2024: Wrap regained compliance with Nasdaq’s continued listing requirements.
    • November 2024: announced Wrap’s Go-Forward Strategy, including a new advanced manufacturing facility in Wise, Virginia, focused on innovation, job creation, and expanding Wrap’s presence in defense, education and public safety markets.
    • February 2025: introduced Wrap’s Managed Safety and Response (MSR) connected ecosystem, bringing together tools, technology and training to deliver real-time, integrated public safety support.
    • February 2025: acquired W1 Global, LLC, integrating former FBI, DEA, and DoD leadership into Wrap’s organization and enhancing its ability to deliver Made-in-America, end-to-end public safety and defense solutions.
    • February 2025: closed a $5.8 million private placement of the Company’s securities to support the execution of its go-forward strategy.
    • March 2025: expanded Wrap’s leadership in managed services with the addition of Joseph Bonavolonta, a 27-year FBI veteran, and Rob Heuchling, a 15-year FBI career, to scale the Company’s support offerings.
    • March 2025: appointed Stephen M. Renna, former Executive at the Export-Import Bank of the United States, to lead Wrap’s international growth and financing strategy, strengthening its global expansion efforts.

    2024 Management Commentary Summary:

    2024 was a transformational year for Wrap. The Company made a deliberate choice to restructure. This reset led to a significant reduction in monthly cash burn to approximately $600,000 on an annualized cash basis, which we believe allows for the rebuild of a sustainable and high-performing business.

    Despite a 27% decline in revenue to $4.5 million, we believe Wrap dramatically improved financial discipline, reducing cost of revenue by 37%, operating losses by 17%, and net losses by 81%. We believe these improvements show the success of the restructuring strategy.

    The Company’s BolaWrap remains as an entry-point into a broader public safety platform. Usage data collected by the Company shows officers deploy the device more frequently than any other on their belt when Wrap provides full support. Demand is expanding, both domestically and internationally, as restrictive use-of-force policies create a market need for early-stage de-escalation tools paired with robust training.

    Wrap’s product roadmap is evolving into an integrated, end-to-end solution, with agencies requesting complementary tools such as VR training, body cameras and additional services. The Company has begun to engage with U.S. government resources like EXIM Bank and the DoD’s Office of Strategic Capital to scale international expansion and support “Made in USA” public safety initiatives.

    Wrap revitalized every leadership role, assembling what we believe to be a high-caliber team with backgrounds across elite public and private sector institutions. The acquisition of W1 Global, LLC has already yielded new opportunities and expanded the Company’s reach into critical law enforcement networks, both domestic and global.

    Outlook:
    As we enter 2025, we believe Wrap is well positioned to capitalize on the groundwork laid during its transformation year. We anticipate measurable progress each quarter as we execute our strategy and scale operations.

    Key priorities for 2025 include:

    • Scaling Integrated Solutions: we expect to continue expanding beyond the BolaWrap into a full ecosystem of de-escalation tools, including training, VR simulation, and more.
    • Global Growth: we are leveraging U.S. government partnerships and resources (e.g., EXIM Bank, DoD) to support our international strategy. Several late-stage international deals are in motion, and we anticipate converting those into significant revenue opportunities.
    • Federal and Strategic Engagements: our recent additions to the team opens the door to U.S. federal funding programs and public safety initiatives, which we believe enables Wrap to serve as a trusted vendor for government-backed public safety efforts globally.
    • Innovation: the expanded talent bench is expected to provide new capabilities in high-trust, high-security sectors. We plan to productize and monetize these capabilities through partnerships, contracts and services.
    • Performance and Accountability: we are building a culture that rewards execution with compensation structures dependent upon results. We expect KPIs around product deployment, training efficacy, customer satisfaction and recurring revenue will guide our actions and investments.

    We believe the public safety market is at an inflection point, and believe that Wrap is positioned to lead a new era of non-lethal policing solutions. We believe our value proposition is more relevant than ever—officers and agencies need tools that de-escalate situations without force and communities are demanding safer outcomes.

    Our confidence is not theoretical—it’s reflected in the capital, commitment, and conviction of our leadership team.

    About Wrap Technologies, Inc.
    Wrap Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq: WRAP) is a global leader in public safety solutions, bringing together cutting-edge technology with exceptional people to address the complex, modern day challenges facing public safety organizations.

    Wrap’s BolaWrap® solution is a safer way to gain compliance—without pain. This innovative, patented device deploys light, sound, and a Kevlar® tether to safely restrain individuals from a distance, giving officers critical time and space to manage non-compliant situations before resorting to higher-force options. The BolaWrap 150 does not shoot, strike, shock, or incapacitate—instead, it helps officers operate lower on the force continuum, reducing the risk of injury to both officers and subjects. Used by over 1,000 agencies across the U.S. and in 60 countries, BolaWrap® is backed by training certified by the International Association of Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training (IADLEST), reinforcing Wrap’s commitment to public safety through cutting-edge technology and expert training.

    Wrap Reality™ VR is an advanced, fully immersive training simulator designed to enhance decision-making under pressure. As a comprehensive public safety training platform, it provides first responders with realistic, interactive scenarios that reflect the evolving challenges of modern law enforcement. By offering a growing library of real-world situations, Wrap Reality™ equips officers with the skills and confidence to navigate high stakes encounters effectively, leading to safer outcomes for both responders and the communities they serve.

    Wrap’s Intrensic solution is an advanced body-worn camera and evidence management system built for efficiency, security, and transparency. Designed to meet the rigorous demands of modern law enforcement, Intrensic seamlessly captures, stores, and manages digital evidence, ensuring integrity and full chain-of-custody compliance. With automated workflows, secure cloud storage, and intuitive case management tools, it streamlines operations, reduces administrative burden, and enhances courtroom credibility.

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

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

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

    The MIL Network –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Secretary Chavez-DeRemer begins clawing back billions in unspent COVID funds

    Source: US Department of Labor

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Department of Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer today announced $1.4 billion in unused COVID-era funding has been returned to taxpayers through the U.S. Department of Treasury’s General Fund, with action being taken to recover the remaining $2.9 billion. 

    The roughly $4.3 billion was intended for states to use for temporary unemployment insurance during the pandemic. Instead, several states continued spending millions of dollars despite no longer meeting necessary requirements, which was uncovered in a 2023 audit conducted by the department’s Office of Inspector General.

    “Any money still sitting around for pandemic-era unemployment funds is a clear misuse of Americans’ hard-earned tax dollars,” Secretary Chavez-DeRemer said. “I’m keeping my promise to be a good steward of your money by rooting out waste to ensure American Workers always come First.” 

    “It’s unacceptable that billions of dollars went unchecked in a program that ended several years ago,” Deputy Secretary of Labor Keith Sonderling said. “In a huge win for the American taxpayer, we’ve clawed back these unused funds and will keep working to eliminate waste, fraud, and abuse.”

    This funding originated under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act in March of 2020, which established the Temporary Full Federal Funding of the First Week of Compensable Regular Unemployment for States with No Waiting Week program. The program was intended to provide expanded unemployment insurance to Americans unable to work due to the pandemic. Although TFFF was closed in 2021, the OIG’s 2023 audit found four states were allowed to access the funding “despite not meeting program requirements,” totaling over $100 million in spending. 

    Read the full audit here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Open Lending Reports Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2024 Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    AUSTIN, Texas, March 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Open Lending Corporation (Nasdaq: LPRO) (the “Company” or “Open Lending”), an industry trailblazer in lending enablement and risk analytics solutions for financial institutions, today reported financial results for its fourth quarter and full year ended December 31, 2024.

    In a separate press release today, the Company announced that its Board of Directors (the “Board”) has appointed Jessica Buss, Chairman of the Board, as Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. The Board has also appointed Michelle Glasl as Chief Operating Officer. Charles Jehl will continue to serve as Interim Chief Financial Officer and as a member of the Board.

    Three Months Ended December 31, 2024 Highlights

    • The Company facilitated 26,065 certified loans during the fourth quarter of 2024, compared to 26,263 certified loans in the fourth quarter of 2023.
    • Total revenue was $(56.9) million during the fourth quarter of 2024, compared to $14.9 million in the fourth quarter of 2023. The fourth quarter of 2024 was negatively impacted by a $81.3 million reduction in estimated profit share revenues related to business in historic vintages as compared to a $14.3 million reduction in the fourth quarter of 2023.
    • Gross loss was $63.2 million during the fourth quarter of 2024, compared to gross profit of $9.6 million in the fourth quarter of 2023.
    • Net loss was $144.4 million during the fourth quarter of 2024, compared to a net loss of $4.8 million in the fourth quarter of 2023. The fourth quarter of 2024 was negatively impacted by the recording of a valuation allowance on our deferred tax assets of $86.1 million, which increased our income tax expense during the period.
    • Adjusted EBITDA was $(73.1) million during the fourth quarter of 2024, compared to $(2.1) million in the fourth quarter of 2023.

    Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2024 Highlights

    • The Company facilitated 110,652 certified loans during the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to 122,984 certified loans in the prior year.
    • Total revenue was $24.0 million during the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to $117.5 million in the prior year. The year ended December 31, 2024 was negatively impacted by a $96.1 million reduction in estimated profit share revenues related to business in historic vintages as compared to a $22.8 million reduction in the prior year.
    • Gross profit was $0.2 million during the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to $95.2 million in the prior year.
    • Net loss was $135.0 million during the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to net income of $22.1 million in the prior year.
    • Adjusted EBITDA was $(42.9) million during the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to $50.2 million in the prior year.

    Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP financial measure. A reconciliation of this non-GAAP financial measure to its most directly comparable GAAP financial measure is provided in the financial table included at the end of this press release. An explanation of this measure and how it is calculated is also included under the heading “Non-GAAP Financial Measures.”

    Fourth Quarter 2024 Impact Related to Profit Share Revenue Change in Estimates
    Each quarter, the Company evaluates and updates its profit share revenue forecast and makes adjustments to its profit share revenue and related contract assets accordingly. Following this evaluation, for the fourth quarter of 2024, adjustments attributable to the Company’s profit share revenue forecast resulted in a negative change in estimate of $81.3 million, primarily due to heightened delinquencies and corresponding defaults associated with loans originated in 2021 through 2024.

    As discussed below, three factors primarily contributed to this reduction of estimated profit share.

    First, there was continued deterioration of the Company’s 2021 and 2022 vintages. These certified loans were generated when used car values reached an all-time high in late 2021, driven by pandemic-related disruptions in the supply chain. The subsequent decline in used car values has increased the likelihood of default on vehicles that are now worth significantly less than their corresponding outstanding loan balances. Adjustments to the forecasted performance of the Company’s 2021 and 2022 vintages accounted for approximately 40% of the Company’s total negative change in estimate for the fourth quarter of 2024.

    Second, continued elevated delinquencies and ultimate defaults as a result of broader macroeconomic conditions accounted for approximately 20% of the Company’s total negative change in estimate for the fourth quarter of 2024.

    Finally, the Company identified two cohorts of borrowers, borrowers with credit builder tradelines and borrowers with fewer positive tradelines, that caused its 2023 and 2024 vintages to underperform. Adjustments to the forecasted performance of loans to these two cohorts of borrowers accounted for approximately 40% of the Company’s total negative change in estimate for the fourth quarter of 2024.

    As a result of the profit share change in estimate adjustment, for the fourth quarter of 2024, the Company reduced its contract assets by $33.7 million and recorded an excess profit share receipts liability of $47.6 million, attributable to the change in its expected profit share revenue. Any future adjustments to the Company’s profit share revenue forecasts, positive or negative, will impact profit share revenue.

    First Quarter 2025 Outlook
    For the first quarter of 2025, the Company currently expects total certified loans to be between 27,000 and 28,000.

    The guidance provided includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of U.S. securities laws. See “Forward-Looking Statements” below.

    Board Changes
    Jessica Buss will continue to serve as Chairman of the Board but will no longer be a member of the nominating and corporate governance and audit committees of the Board. Thomas Hegge will join the audit committee effective immediately.

    Conference Call
    Open Lending will host a conference call to discuss the fourth quarter and full year 2024 financial results tomorrow, April 1, 2025, at 8:00 am ET. The conference call will be webcast live from the Company’s investor relations website at https://investors.openlending.com/ under the “Events” section. The conference call can also be accessed live over the phone by dialing (877) 407-4018, or for international callers (201) 689-8471; the conference ID is 13752724. An archive of the webcast will be available at the same location on the website shortly after the call has concluded.

    About Open Lending
    Open Lending (Nasdaq: LPRO) provides loan analytics, risk-based pricing, risk modeling and default insurance to auto lenders throughout the United States. For over 20 years, we have been empowering financial institutions to create profitable auto loan portfolios with less risk and more reward. For more information, please visit www.openlending.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release includes certain statements that are not historical facts but are forward-looking statements for purposes of the safe harbor provisions under the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements related to market trends, consumer behavior and demand for automotive loans, as well as future financial performance under the heading “First Quarter 2025 Outlook” above. Forward-looking statements generally are accompanied by words such as “believe,” “may,” “will,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “expect,” “should,” “would,” “plan,” “predict,” “potential,” “seem,” “seek,” “future,” “outlook,” and similar expressions that predict or indicate future events or trends or that are not statements of historical matters. These statements are based on various assumptions and on the current expectations of the Company’s management and are not predictions of actual performance. These forward-looking statements are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to serve as, and must not be relied on by any investor as, a guarantee, an assurance, a prediction or a definitive statement of fact or probability. Actual events and circumstances are difficult or impossible to predict and will differ from assumptions. Many actual events and circumstances are beyond the Company’s control. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including general economic, market, political and business conditions; applicable taxes, inflation, tariffs, supply chain disruptions including global hostilities and responses thereto, interest rates and the regulatory environment; the outcome of judicial proceedings to which Open Lending may become a party; and other risks discussed in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024. If the risks materialize or assumptions prove incorrect, actual results could differ materially from the results implied by these forward-looking statements. There may be additional risks that the Company presently does not know or that it currently believes are immaterial that could also cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements. In addition, forward-looking statements reflect the Company’s expectations, plans or forecasts of future events and views as of the date of this press release. The Company anticipates that subsequent events and developments will cause its assessments to change. However, while the Company may elect to update these forward-looking statements at some point in the future, the Company specifically disclaims any obligation to do so. These forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing the Company’s assessments as of any date subsequent to the date of this press release. Accordingly, undue reliance should not be placed upon the forward-looking statements.

    Non-GAAP Financial Measures
    The non-GAAP financial measures included in this press release are financial information that has not been prepared in accordance with GAAP. The Company uses Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA margin internally in analyzing our financial results and believes these measures are useful to investors, as a supplement to GAAP measures, in evaluating our ongoing operational performance. The Company believes that the use of non-GAAP financial measures provides an additional tool for investors to use in evaluating ongoing operating results and trends and in comparing our financial results with other companies in our industry, many of which present similar non-GAAP financial measures to investors.

    The Company believes these measures provide useful information to investors and others in understanding and evaluating its operating results in the same manner as its management and board of directors. In addition, these measures provide useful measures for period-to-period comparisons of our business, as they remove the effect of certain non-cash items and certain non-recurring variable charges. Adjusted EBITDA is defined as GAAP net income (loss) excluding interest expense, income tax expense, depreciation and amortization expense, and share-based compensation expense. Adjusted EBITDA margin is defined as Adjusted EBITDA expressed as a percentage of total revenue.

    Non-GAAP financial measures should not be considered in isolation from, or as a substitute for, financial information prepared in accordance with GAAP. Investors are encouraged to review the reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures to their most directly comparable GAAP financial measure provided in the financial statement tables included below in this press release.

    Investor Relations Contact:
    InvestorRelations@openlending.com

     
    OPEN LENDING CORPORATION
    Consolidated Balance Sheets
    (Unaudited, in thousands, except share data)

     
        December 31, 2024   December 31, 2023
    Assets        
    Current assets        
    Cash and cash equivalents   $ 243,164     $ 240,206  
    Restricted cash     10,760       6,463  
    Accounts receivable, net     5,055       4,616  
    Current contract assets, net     9,973       28,704  
    Income tax receivable     3,558       7,035  
    Other current assets     3,215       2,852  
    Total current assets     275,725       289,876  
    Property and equipment, net     729       826  
    Capitalized software development costs, net     5,386       3,087  
    Operating lease right-of-use assets, net     3,878       3,990  
    Contract assets     5,094       610  
    Deferred tax asset, net     —       70,113  
    Other assets     5,556       5,535  
    Total assets   $ 296,368     $ 374,037  
    Liabilities and stockholders’ equity        
    Current liabilities        
    Accounts payable   $ 953     $ 375  
    Accrued expenses     5,166       8,131  
    Current portion of debt     7,500       4,688  
    Third-party claims administration liability     10,797       6,464  
    Current portion of excess profit share receipts     19,346       —  
    Other current liabilities     3,490       932  
    Total current liabilities     47,252       20,590  
    Long-term debt, net of deferred financing costs     132,217       139,357  
    Operating lease liabilities     3,273       3,450  
    Excess profit share receipts     28,210       —  
    Other liabilities     7,329       5,060  
    Total liabilities     218,281       168,457  
    Commitments and contingencies        
    Stockholders’ equity        
    Preferred stock, $0.01 par value; 10,000,000 shares authorized and none issued and outstanding     —       —  
    Common stock, $0.01 par value; 550,000,000 shares authorized, 128,198,185 shares issued and 119,350,001 shares outstanding as of December 31, 2024 and 128,198,185 shares issued and 118,819,795 shares outstanding as of December 31, 2023     1,282       1,282  
    Additional paid-in capital     502,664       502,032  
    Accumulated deficit     (328,759 )     (193,749 )
    Treasury stock at cost, 8,848,184 shares at December 31, 2024 and 9,378,390 at December 31, 2023     (97,100 )     (103,985 )
    Total stockholders’ equity   $ 78,087     $ 205,580  
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity   $ 296,368     $ 374,037  
     
    OPEN LENDING CORPORATION
    Consolidated Statements of Operations
    (Unaudited, in thousands, except share data)
     
      Three Months Ended December 31,   Year Ended December 31,
        2024       2023       2024       2023  
    Revenue              
    Program fees $ 13,734     $ 13,482     $ 57,040     $ 64,092  
    Profit share   (73,160 )     (1,132 )     (43,123 )     43,301  
    Claims administration and other service fees   2,502       2,589       10,107       10,067  
    Total revenue   (56,924 )     14,939       24,024       117,460  
    Cost of services   6,265       5,365       23,855       22,282  
    Gross profit (loss)   (63,189 )     9,574       169       95,178  
    Operating expenses              
    General and administrative   10,549       12,002       43,867       43,043  
    Selling and marketing   3,958       4,349       17,218       17,485  
    Research and development   861       1,500       4,462       5,575  
    Total operating expenses   15,368       17,851       65,547       66,103  
    Operating income (loss)   (78,557 )     (8,277 )     (65,378 )     29,075  
    Interest expense   (2,849 )     (2,820 )     (11,317 )     (10,661 )
    Interest income   2,812       3,018       12,090       10,335  
    Other income (expense), net   —       118       —       109  
    Income (loss) before income taxes   (78,594 )     (7,961 )     (64,605 )     28,858  
    Income tax expense (benefit)   65,842       (3,119 )     70,405       6,788  
    Net income (loss) $ (144,436 )   $ (4,842 )   $ (135,010 )   $ 22,070  
    Net income (loss) per common share              
    Basic $ (1.21 )   $ (0.04 )   $ (1.13 )   $ 0.18  
    Diluted $ (1.21 )   $ (0.04 )   $ (1.13 )   $ 0.18  
    Weighted average common shares outstanding              
    Basic   119,331,553       119,366,013       119,179,766       120,826,644  
    Diluted   119,331,553       119,366,013       119,179,766       121,474,880  
     
    OPEN LENDING CORPORATION
    Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
    (Unaudited, in thousands)
     
        Year Ended December 31,
          2024       2023  
    Cash flows from operating activities        
    Net income (loss)   $ (135,010 )   $ 22,070  
    Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:        
    Share-based compensation     8,677       9,492  
    Depreciation and amortization     1,674       1,159  
    Amortization of debt issuance costs     427       428  
    Non-cash operating lease cost     705       620  
    Deferred income taxes     70,113       (4,985 )
    Other     127       15  
    Changes in assets & liabilities:        
    Accounts receivable, net     (439 )     1,105  
    Contract assets, net     14,247       46,116  
    Excess profit share receipts     47,556       —  
    Other current and non-current assets     (429 )     (507 )
    Accounts payable     578       86  
    Accrued expenses     (2,473 )     1,183  
    Income tax receivable, net     4,198       2,699  
    Operating lease liabilities     (624 )     (561 )
    Third-party claims administration liability     4,333       2,409  
    Other current and non-current liabilities     3,938       1,329  
    Net cash provided by operating activities     17,598       82,658  
    Cash flows from investing activities        
    Purchase of property and equipment     (165 )     (123 )
    Capitalized software development costs     (3,731 )     (2,055 )
    Net cash used in investing activities     (3,896 )     (2,178 )
    Cash flows from financing activities        
    Payments on term loans     (4,688 )     (3,750 )
    Payment of excise tax on shares repurchased     (314 )     —  
    Shares repurchased     —       (37,322 )
    Shares withheld for taxes related to restricted stock units     (1,445 )     (1,258 )
    Net cash used in financing activities     (6,447 )     (42,330 )
    Net change in cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash     7,255       38,150  
    Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash at the beginning of the period     246,669       208,519  
    Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash at the end of the period   $ 253,924     $ 246,669  
    Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:        
    Interest paid   $ 12,590     $ 10,313  
    Income tax paid (refunded), net     (3,907 )     9,075  
    Non-cash investing and financing:        
    Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for lease obligations   $ 594     $ —  
    Share-based compensation for capitalized software development     285       88  
    Capitalized software development costs accrued but not paid     15       248  
    Accrued excise tax associated with share repurchases     —       314  
     
    OPEN LENDING CORPORATION
    Reconciliation of GAAP to Non-GAAP Financial Measures
    (Unaudited, in thousands)
     
      Three Months Ended December 31,   Year Ended December 31,
        2024       2023       2024       2023  
    Net income (loss) $ (144,436 )   $ (4,842 )   $ (135,010 )   $ 22,070  
    Non-GAAP adjustments:              
    Interest expense   2,849       2,820       11,317       10,661  
    Income tax expense (benefit)   65,842       (3,119 )     70,405       6,788  
    Depreciation and amortization expense   393       335       1,674       1,159  
    Share-based compensation   2,269       2,666       8,677       9,492  
    Total adjustments   71,353       2,702       92,073       28,100  
    Adjusted EBITDA $ (73,083 )   $ (2,140 )   $ (42,937 )   $ 50,170  
    Total revenue $ (56,924 )   $ 14,939     $ 24,024     $ 117,460  
    Adjusted EBITDA margin   128 %   (14 )%   (179 )%     43 %

    The MIL Network –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Baldwin Leads Colleagues in Laying Out Worker-First American Trade Policy

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin

    WASHINGTON, D.C. –  As the Trump Administration plans to reshape the nation’s trade policy, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) is leading her Midwest colleagues, U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), in laying out a vision to prioritize American workers in trade policy, re-establish the United States as a world leader in manufacturing, and strengthen national security. Senator Baldwin has long worked against trade deals that undermine American workers, including opposing the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), Permanent Normal Trade Relations (PNTR) with China, and other deals that are a race to the bottom. Since 2001, flawed trade policies have contributed to the loss of 4.3 million manufacturing jobs in the U.S. 

    “For too long, the deck has been stacked against workers and has benefited trade cheats like China and the corporate fat cats in board rooms. Workers are the ones who make our economy go around and they are the ones we need to prioritize. Right now, we have a real opportunity to level the playing field for American workers and crack down on trade cheats, grow our Made in America economy, and ensure workers get the pay they deserve to live a good, middle-class life,” said Senator Baldwin.

    “We need trade policies that provide a level playing field for American workers to compete and succeed,” said Senator Peters. “For far too long, American businesses and workers have paid the price of a trade landscape that benefits countries like China who blatantly cheat the system and undercut our businesses without being held accountable. Now is the time to take a real, comprehensive look at our trade policies to ensure we are putting American workers first and preventing good-paying jobs from being shipped overseas.”

    “For 30 years we’ve been outsourcing our supply chains way too far, and too many Michigan workers have suffered because of it,” said Senator Slotkin. “Democrats, especially in the Midwest, need a vision for a 21st century trade policy. To me, that strategy isn’t rocket science. It should strengthen the Middle Class and protect American manufacturing and jobs, provide certainty for American businesses and farmers, and recognize that the U.S. has powerful economic levers to wield against our adversaries.”

    In the letter to President Trump, Baldwin and her colleagues outline the details of a trade agenda that would center workers, stand up to trade cheats like China, and grow the American manufacturing sector, including:

    • Advocating for a Complete Reimagining of Relationship with People’s Republic of China (PRC): The plan calls for revising our trade relationship with China. By allowing China to join the World Trade Organization, the United States opted to treat China like a market economy. China’s non-market practices, rampant abuses of labor and human rights, and government-sponsored trade cheating call for a complete rethinking of our economic relationship, including Permanent Normal Trade Relations.
    • Review & Revise Free Trade Agreements: Baldwin calls for reviewing and revising each of the United States’ 14 free trade agreements with 20 countries, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), to ensure the best outcomes for American workers.
    • Strengthen Trade Enforcement Mechanisms: Baldwin looks to strengthen trade enforcement mechanisms to curb cheating and manipulation by foreign countries. Baldwin identifies bipartisan legislation, such as the Leveling the Playing Field 2.0 Act to strengthen trade remedies, Fighting Trade Cheats Act to empower private companies to hold bad actors accountable, and efforts that can be addressed by executive action, like closing the de minimis loophole, which results in lost tariff revenue and the importing of counterfeit products and contraband drugs like fentanyl.
    • Support for Workers Who Lost Jobs Due to Short-Sighted Policies of the Past: Baldwin also calls for the strengthening and reauthorization of the Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) to provide critical support for American workers who lose their jobs due to the short-sighted policies of the past, so those workers can access job training benefits and quickly return to the workforce.

    Full text of the letter can be found here and below.

    Dear Mr. President:

    Your Administration has announced that it is undertaking a comprehensive review of our nation’s trade policy, an action that is welcome and long overdue. Free trade and globalization have left us with offshored manufacturing, devastated communities, workers out of a job or in jobs with lower wages, and supply chains overly dependent on our adversaries in too many areas. Our states have suffered disproportionately, and we write to share policy solutions informed by that experience and to urge you to implement a pro-American worker trade policy.

    The current global and domestic economic landscape is the result of deliberate policy choices. Now is the time to break the cycle and boldly set a new standard for how we design, implement, monitor and enforce our trade policies. Presidents of both parties have failed Americans on trade policy, and Congress has validated their mistakes—often, in close votes. Misguided decisions like granting Permanent Normal Trade Relations (PNTR), which paved the way for China’s accession into the World Trade Organization (WTO), along with the passage of NAFTA and CAFTA, as well as support of the Trans Pacific Partnership, are part of a misguided narrative that free trade and liberalization would improve economic growth and living standards, which for many communities has proven false. Since 2001, flawed trade policies have contributed to the loss of 4.3 million manufacturing jobs here in the U.S. We have fought for a pro-American worker trade policy, and would strongly support reforms that are reasoned, strategic, and durable. Our goal should be a combined pro-U.S. worker trade agenda and proactive industrial policy and strategic use of tariffs that secures supply chains, revitalizes communities, creates good-paying, union jobs and re-establishes the United States as a leader in world manufacturing.

    First and foremost, we must drastically revise our trade relationship with the People’s Republic of China (PRC). By allowing China to join the WTO, the United States opted to treat the PRC like a market economy. Proponents claimed this would bring market reforms. That has proven a naïve and misguided approach. China still embraces a state-directed approach to trade and targets entire sectors and industries for global domination. China’s non-market practices, rampant abuses of labor and human rights, and government-sponsored trade cheating call for a complete rethinking of our economic relationship, including PNTR.

    Each of the United States’ 14 free trade agreements with 20 countries, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), must be reviewed and revised where necessary, in order to ensure the best outcomes for American workers. While your Administration oversaw the negotiations of the USMCA, which contained the strongest labor standards of any free trade agreement thus far, there are urgent issues to be addressed during the upcoming review. The PRC has increasingly located facilities in Mexico to take advantage of proximity to the United States and preferential treatment of goods under USMCA. It has also failed to fundamentally change a core challenge facing American workers: the continued offshoring of good manufacturing jobs because of wage suppression, union busting and weak regulations in Mexico. There are long-standing challenges to the U.S. economy that USMCA’s dispute mechanism has failed to address, such as Canada’s treatment of the United States dairy sector. Separate from USMCA, the United States is part of agreements about government procurement, through the WTO or negotiated separately, that result in a losing deal for Americans. All such agreements must be thoroughly reviewed and recalibrated to level the playing field.

    The ultimate goal of our trade enforcement mechanisms should not be to react to injury, it must be to deter and prevent cheating in the first place. Foreign entities will continue to transship, evade trade remedies, and create new ways to cheat and take advantage of the United States, and stopping problems as they come up in a “whack-a-mole” fashion is a reactive strategy. Strengthening trade enforcement mechanisms will curb cheating and manipulation by foreign countries. There are substantive bipartisan efforts in this area, such as the Leveling the Playing Field 2.0 Act to strengthen trade remedies and the Fighting Trade Cheats Act to empower private companies to hold bad actors accountable. Furthermore, there are some bipartisan efforts that can be addressed by executive action, like closing the de minimis loophole, which your Administration acknowledges results in lost tariff revenue and the importation of counterfeit products and contraband drugs like fentanyl. The loophole also puts American manufacturers and retailers at a disadvantage. In addition, critical support for American workers who lose their jobs due to the short-sighted policies of the past, such as Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA), must be reauthorized and strengthened as we try to right the ship on trade policy, to allow those workers to access job training benefits and quickly return to the workforce.

    Tariffs are important tools for leveling the playing field when they are enacted in a strategic, deliberate, and durable way, but it can take months and years for supply chains to adjust. The positive impact of tariffs and trade policy must be bolstered by a robust industrial policy to create and sustain good-paying jobs with efforts such as investments, Buy America requirements, tax incentives, and other programs like those included in Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, the CHIPS and Science Act, and the Inflation Reduction Act. To be successful, we must also keep corporations in check with equitable tax rates and strong antitrust laws to prevent price gouging. Critically, we must empower workers to join unions and earn fair wages to support a middle class lifestyle and be able to save for a safe and secure retirement.

    Lastly, we want to emphasize this proposal is critical to workers and communities in our states, as well as to our national security and emergency preparedness. Re-evaluating American trade policy and securing supply chains will strengthen our national security and better position the United States to defend itself if faced with conflict. During World War II, United States automakers shifted from producing civilian passenger vehicles to producing military equipment and weapons like tanks, engines, and aircraft. More recently, global events like the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russian invasion of Ukraine exposed the risks of our fragile supply chains. Now is the time to learn from these lessons and prioritize a trade policy that puts American workers first.

    Thank you for your consideration of this most important issue.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-Evening Report: A child killer, parenting struggles and ‘innies’ running wild: what to stream in April

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Stuart Richards, Senior Lecturer in Screen Studies, University of South Australia

    Drowning in streaming choices? If so, you’re not alone – as our experts have a particularly wide range of picks this month.

    From musicals and comedy, to serial killers and twisted fictional corporations, there’s plenty to get stuck into.

    The Pitt

    Binge (Australia), Neon (NZ)

    The Pitt is best described as a cross between ER and 24. The series follows an emergency room in Pittsburgh in real time across a 15-hour shift. Each one hour episode is an hour of their shift. Creator R. Scott Gemill and executive producer John Wells both worked extensively on ER, as did Noah Wyle who plays Michael “Robby” Robinavitch, the senior attending.

    The day in question falls on the anniversary of the death of Robby’s mentor during the COVID pandemic and he experiences several flashbacks throughout the shift. The ER ward is chaotic due to the nursing shortage and failing American healthcare system. The series regularly cuts to the overcrowded waiting room of desperate people, waiting to receive care.

    The large ensemble is fantastic and it’s great to see a medical show that actually includes nursing staff as key characters (take note, Grey’s Anatomy!). By unfolding in real time, we get a sense of how chaotic their work is, with several doctors jumping between patients. Several key cases also unfold across several episodes, with many building to dramatic effects.

    It should also be noted that due to having its home on a streaming platform, the show is allowed to depict graphic and sometimes gruesome medical scenes without intruding soundtracks or montages, which only adds to the realism.

    – Stuart Richards

    Severance, season two

    Apple TV

    In absurdist psychological thriller Severance, individuals working for the multinational biotech corporation Lumon Industries can have their work-selves surgically “severed”, separating the memories and experiences of their workplace “innies” from those of their “outies”.

    The second season, three years in the making, looks at the fallout from season one’s cliffhanger finale, in which the innies of Macrodata Analysis, Helly R (Britt Lower), Irving B (John Turturro) and Dylan G (Zach Cherry), led by Mark S (Adam Scott), staged a revolt and busted briefly into their outies’ worlds. In doing so, they exposed shocking secrets about Lumon – including that outie Mark’s wife, thought dead, is somehow alive but being held by Lumon.

    This season has been as stylish and weird as the first, revelling in striking cinematography, impeccable direction, quirky scripting and inspired world-building. It also becomes increasingly eerie, focusing more on Lumon’s bizarre, cult-like history and culture, and the unsettling nature of the innies’ jobs.

    Although lore-heavy, the show has avoided many of the pitfalls of “puzzle box” shows, balancing revelations with astonishingly good performances, particularly from Trammell Tillman as Lumon floor manager Mr Milchick. This uncanny and perversely funny season deserves its status as a water cooler hit. Let’s just hope we don’t have to wait three more years for a resolution.

    – Erin Harrington

    Happiness

    ThreeNow (New Zealand) from April 3

    With their new show Happiness, airing on Three and Three Now, Kip Chapman and Luke Di Somma have created a welcome New Zealand answer to the popular style of “backstage” musical TV show.

    The protagonist is stage director Charlie (Harry McNaughton), who has returned from New York to his hometown of Tauranga having been dismissed from helming a Broadway revival of Cats. In a desperate attempt to demonstrate competency for a renewal of his visa, and to please his mum Gaye (Rebecca Gibney), Charlie decides to help out the local amateur musical theatre society Pizzaz (“the finest large-scale yet boutique classical musical theatre company in Tauranga”) with its latest production, an original musical called The Trojan Horse.

    While the story is fairly predictable, the show blessed with an engaging pastiche score by Luke Di Somma that references a variety of fun musical theatre tropes. It is a welcome addition to the “let’s put on a show” backstager genre, and will appeal to fans of musical theatre as well as workplace comedies.

    Happiness paints New Zealand musical theatre talent in a positive light – showing what the locals can do – while being highly entertaining in its own right.

    – Gregory Camp

    Running Point

    Netflix

    Running Point is writer-producer Mindy Kaling’s return to her roots with an office-family comedy. After spending some time in high-school with Never Have I Ever and college with Sex Lives of College Girls, Kaling returns to where she started her TV career with The Office and The Mindy Project. Based very loosely on the real-life story of Los Angeles Lakers President Jeanie Buss, this Kate Hudson vehicle is ripe with satire, family dynamics and absurdity.

    When her older brother (Justin Theroux) goes to rehab, he names his sister (Hudson) as the new president of their family business: basketball empire the Los Angeles “Waves”. Running Point feels like a more fully-realised version of Kaling’s previous short-lived family sports comedy Champions.

    The cast is stacked with TV comedy MVPs including Brenda Song, Drew Tarver, Scott MacArthur, Jay Ellis, Max Greenfield and Jon Glaser. Hudson is at her most Goldie Hawn-like here, mixing physical comedy with goofiness and heart. It’s easy and enjoyable watching, even if (like me) you are not a big sports fan!

    – Jessica Ford

    Gone Girls: The Long Island Serial Killer

    Netflix

    True crime documentaries, particularly those concerned with serial killers, are often criticised for their silencing of the victims, while elevating the perpetrator and perversely celebrating their crimes.

    Gone Girls: The Long Island Serial Killer bucks that trend. Its focus is on the women who were murdered by Rex Heuermann, and the families and friends who band together in their shared suffering and pursuit of justice over a period of more than two decades. In particular, it is the disappearance of Shannan Gilbert, and her mother’s dogged perseverance in keeping the police department’s attention on her missing daughter, which leads to the discovery and identification of the bodies of another six women.

    Like his namesake, the “Long Island Ripper”, Heuermann relied on the fact that his victims were sex workers – assuming their deaths would be of little consequence to law enforcement, or that their disappearances wouldn’t even be noticed. For some time this was true, as one interviewee observes: “knowing that sex workers might be afraid to come forward with information, police were not active in reaching out to them and making them feel comfortable coming forward”.

    But these women were mothers, daughters, sisters and friends. Gone Girls rejects the marginalisation of the victims, just as their communities had worked so hard to do.

    – Jessica Gildersleeve

    Adolescence

    Netflix

    Why do children kill other children? What makes an intelligent boy from a loving suburban family borrow a knife from a school friend and, on a casual Sunday evening, stab another child to death? When someone so young commits a horrific act, who is to blame – the child, the family, or society?

    With its technical mastery and gut-punch power, Adolescence is a tour de force. The series tracks the story of 13-year-old Jamie Miller (Owen Cooper) after he is arrested and later charged with the murder of his classmate, Katie. Co-creator Stephen Graham stars as Jamie’s father, Eddie.

    The series is a harrowing take on male violence and rage, and the misogynist radicalisation of vulnerable boys. Trapped in the dark mirrors of the manosphere, and allured by the grim logic of Andrew Tate, Jamie represents a generation of boys tragically and perhaps permanently lost to incel culture.

    Skilfully filmed in Philip Barantini’s signature one-shot style, the series pushes the limits of television production. The high-wire act of timing and trust amplifies the message that one misstep can lead to failure. In Adolescence, however, there are no easy outs. Just as the continuous filming style offers no reprieve, the show refuses to offer a simple explanation for why Jamie did it.

    Adolescence is not an easy watch, but for those parenting teens, it is a necessary one.

    – Kate Cantrell




    Read more:
    Adolescence is a technical masterpiece that exposes the darkest corners of incel culture and male rage


    The Role of a Lifetime

    ABC iView (Australia)

    Edutainment at its finest, The Role of a Lifetime approaches contemporary parenthood with good humour and even better, good research. Informative without being preachy, the short series focuses on parenting tweens (children in late primary school) and above, with a sympathetic approach to the pressures of modern life. In a nutshell: social media is everywhere, what can and should we do about it?

    Leads Kate Ritchie and Nazeem Hussain serve as part-segment presenters and part-parent role players in this mixture of magazine show and sitcom, while the steady hands of Amanda Keller and Maggie Dent provide context and permission to get it wrong.

    Aimed very squarely at a nuclear heterocentric Australian middle class, there are moments that still stray into cliché. For instance, why is mum still in charge of dinner even though she’s also worked a full day, often still in full work clothes, until late at night? Nonetheless, the warm dynamic between the family members and the chosen experts makes the show really engaging and invites further discussion rather than dictating rules and failures.

    The featured “young experts” who participate in the casual panels are also excellent. If they are anything resembling Australia’s future, we are in good hands.

    – Liz Giuffre

    Nickel Boys

    Prime Video

    Nickel Boys, a new film adaptation of Colson Whitehead’s novel, follows Elwood Curtis – a studious, law-abiding teenager who is sent to the Nickel Academy in mid-1960s Florida after he unwittingly accepts a ride in a stolen car and is unjustly convicted as an accessory to the theft.

    The Nickel Academy, based on the real-life Dozier School for Boys, is a segregated reform school operating as a front for the coercion of unpaid labour from the boys detained there. These boys are subject to beatings, rapes and psychological torture. And their efforts to run away or resist often prove fatal.

    At Nickel, Elwood bonds with another 17-year-old inmate, Turner, whose cynicism provides a foil to Elwood’s idealism. A second timeline follows the adult Elwood’s efforts to build a life and maintain relationships in the aftermath of his imprisonment and escape.

    You don’t watch Nickel Boys so much as experience it – seeing and hearing what Elwood and (later) Turner see and hear. The film’s first-person approach can sometimes be distracting, not least because of the impulse to compare it with your own sense of what looking looks like.

    That said, the film honours Whitehead’s ambivalence, developing a visual style that amplifies a major plot twist in the novel. It turns the darkest events into a luminous fable of endurance.

    – Sascha Morrell




    Read more:
    Nickel Boys could be the most radical literary adaptation ever made – but how does it compare to the book?


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

    – ref. A child killer, parenting struggles and ‘innies’ running wild: what to stream in April – https://theconversation.com/a-child-killer-parenting-struggles-and-innies-running-wild-what-to-stream-in-april-253018

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Altamonte Springs Man Pleads Guilty To Stealing COVID Relief Funds

    Source: United States Department of Justice (National Center for Disaster Fraud)

    Orlando, FL – Acting United States Attorney Sara C. Sweeney announces that Joshua Robinson (32, Texas) has pleaded guilty to wire fraud. Robinson faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.

    According to the plea agreement, between July 2020 and August 2021, Robinson devised a scheme to defraud the Small Business Administration (SBA) by submitting false and fraudulent Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) and Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan applications. Specifically, Robinson submitted an EIDL application and a PPP application for businesses that he knew he did not own. Robinson obtained $13,100 from the EIDL application and $19,133 from the PPP application. Robinson then fraudulently obtained forgiveness of his PPP loan. 

    This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs – Office of Inspector General together with the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie A. McNeff.

    On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the department’s response to the pandemic, please visit Justice.gov/Coronavirus and Justice.gov/Coronavirus/CombatingFraud.

    Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by contacting the Justice Department’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.

    MIL Security OSI –

    April 1, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: VIDEO RELEASE: Sen. Johnson on Sunday Morning Futures: “Now’s the Time” to Return to Pre-Pandemic Spending Levels

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Ron Johnson
    WASHINGTON – On Sunday, U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) joined Maria Bartiromo on Sunday Morning Futures to call for a return to pre-pandemic levels of spending through a budget review process. 
    “I don’t think Trump voters expected Republicans to continue spending at Biden’s spending levels. If we want to defeat the deep state, stop funding it!” said Sen. Johnson. 
    “For any Republican who claimed that we don’t have a revenue problem, we have a spending problem, now’s the time to insist on returning to a reasonable pre-pandemic level of spending and a process to achieve it!” he continued.

    Watch the full video here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 1, 2025
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