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Category: Politics

  • MIL-OSI: Aemetis Biogas Monthly RNG Production Increased by 55% in March

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CUPERTINO, Calif., April 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Aemetis, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMTX), a renewable natural gas and renewable fuels company focused on low and negative carbon intensity renewable fuels, announced today that its production of renewable natural gas (RNG) increased 55% in March compared to February. RNG production from anaerobic dairy digesters increases during periods of warmer weather due to improved temperatures for microbial activity that converts organic material into biomethane and the higher production quantity is expected to continue through the summer.

    Aemetis Biogas also completed a sale of LCFS and D3 RINs at the end of Q1. The LCFS credits were generated from RNG dispensed as transportation fuel in Q4 2024 and were booked under the California Air Resource Board (CARB) reporting process at the end of the first quarter this year. The D3 RINs were from production and dispensing of RNG in February 2025.

    “Aemetis Biogas uses animal waste feedstock to produce domestic energy which is not directly impacted by import/export tariffs. The significant 55% increase in monthly RNG production in March compared to February is on track with our 2025 production plan and generates proportionally larger LCFS and D3 RIN revenues, as well as Section 45Z sellable tax credits,” stated Eric McAfee, chairman and CEO of Aemetis. “We are now completing construction of digesters that will process waste from four additional dairies that are expected to be operational in the next few months, supporting the sale of another round of investment tax credits and further increasing RNG production and associated revenues.”

    Aemetis Biogas is in the final phase of Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS) pathway approvals for seven dairy digesters by the California Air Resources Board (CARB), which is expected to be received before the end of Q2, which should generate about $6 million per year of increased revenues from LCFS credits at current prices.

    CARB is also in the process of finalizing its November 2024 LCFS amendments that are expected to significantly increase the mandated demand for LCFS credits, and CARB just published its final proposed regulations for a fifteen-day comment period last Friday. The higher LCFS credit prices expected to be created by these regulations will further increase Aemetis Biogas LCFS revenue proportionally to the LCFS credit price increase, potentially generating up to 300% more total LCFS revenue per MMBtu of RNG.

    Aemetis Biogas continues to grow production and revenues as it builds digesters and biogas pipelines to capture methane from 50 dairies that have signed agreements to supply the Central Dairy Digester Project near Modesto, California. When completed, the Aemetis Biogas Central Dairy Digester Project is expected to generate 1.65 million MMBtu of dairy RNG each year. Since California imports more than 75% of the crude oil used to produce diesel, the Aemetis RNG project is planned to replace the primarily imported diesel consumed by trucks that drive 77 million miles per year with low emission, local RNG biofuel produced from American domestic waste sources.

    About Aemetis

    Headquartered in Cupertino, California, Aemetis is a renewable natural gas and renewable fuel company focused on the operation, acquisition, development, and commercialization of innovative technologies that replace petroleum products and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Founded in 2006, Aemetis is operating and actively expanding a California biogas digester network and pipeline system to convert dairy waste gas into Renewable Natural Gas. Aemetis owns and operates a 65 million gallon per year ethanol production facility in California’s Central Valley near Modesto that supplies about 80 dairies with animal feed. Aemetis owns and operates an 80 million gallon per year production facility on the East Coast of India producing high quality distilled biodiesel and refined glycerin. Aemetis is developing a sustainable aviation fuel and renewable diesel fuel biorefinery in California, renewable hydrogen, and hydroelectric power to produce low carbon intensity renewable jet and diesel fuel. For additional information about Aemetis, please visit www.aemetis.com.

    Safe Harbor Statement

    This news release contains forward-looking statements, including statements regarding assumptions, projections, expectations, targets, intentions or beliefs about future events or other statements that are not historical facts. Forward-looking statements include, without limitation, projections of financial results in 2025 and future years; statements relating to the development, engineering, financing, construction and operation of the Aemetis ethanol, biogas, SAF and renewable diesel, and carbon sequestration facilities; our ability to promote, develop, finance, and construct facilities to produce biogas, renewable fuels, and biochemicals; and statements about future market prices and results of government actions. Words or phrases such as “anticipates,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “believes,” “estimates,” “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “predicts,” “projects,” “showing signs,” “targets,” “view,” “will likely result,” “will continue” or similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based on current assumptions and predictions and are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties. Actual results or events could differ materially from those set forth or implied by such forward-looking statements and related assumptions due to certain factors, including, without limitation, competition in the ethanol, biodiesel and other industries in which we operate, commodity market risks including those that may result from current weather conditions, financial market risks, customer adoption, counter-party risks, risks associated with changes to federal policy or regulation, and other risks detailed in our reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including our Annual Reports on Form 10-K, and in our other filings with the SEC. We are not obligated, and do not intend, to update any of these forward-looking statements at any time unless an update is required by applicable securities laws.

    Company Investor Relations
    Media Contact:
    Todd Waltz
    (408) 213-0940
    investors@aemetis.com

    External Investor Relations
    Contact:
    Kirin Smith
    PCG Advisory Group
    (646) 863-6519
    ksmith@pcgadvisory.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: CNB Financial Corporation Announces that ISS Recommends Shareholders Support the Proposal to Issue Common Stock in connection with the Merger with ESSA Bancorp, Inc., the Proposal to Approve the 2025 Omnibus Incentive Plan and the Say-on-Pay Proposal

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CLEARFIELD, Pa., April 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — CNB Financial Corporation (“CNB”) (NASDAQ: CCNE) is pleased to announce that leading independent proxy advisory firm Institutional Shareholder Services Inc (“ISS”) is recommending that CNB shareholders vote “FOR” each of (1) the proposal to issue shares of CNB common stock in connection with the merger of ESSA Bancorp, Inc. (“ESSA”) with and into CNB; (2) the proposal to approve the CNB Financial Corporation 2025 Omnibus Incentive Plan; and (3) the non-binding advisory resolution to approve the compensation of CNB’s named executive officers in advance of the upcoming CNB Annual Meeting of Shareholders (the “Annual Meeting”).

    The Annual Meeting will be held at 2:00 p.m., Eastern Time, on Tuesday, April 15, 2025. Shareholders of record as of February 18, 2025 will be able to attend the Annual Meeting, vote, and submit questions during the Annual Meeting via live webcast by visiting web.viewproxy.com/CNBFinancial/2025. CNB’s joint proxy statement/prospectus for the Annual Meeting is available at web.viewproxy.com/CNBFinancial/2025.

    Whether or not shareholders plan to attend the Annual Meeting, CNB encourages shareholders to read the joint proxy statement/prospectus and submit their proxy or voting instructions as soon as possible. Information regarding how to vote or revoke previously submitted proxies is available in the joint proxy statement/prospectus referenced above.

    If CNB shareholders have any questions or need assistance with voting, they are encouraged to contact CNB’s proxy solicitor, Alliance Advisors:

    Alliance Advisors, LLC
    200 Broadacres Drive, 3rd Floor
    Bloomfield, NJ 07003
    (833) 215-7302
    CCNE@AllianceAdvisors.com

    About CNB Financial Corporation

    CNB Financial Corporation is a financial holding company with consolidated assets of approximately $6.2 billion. CNB Financial Corporation conducts business primarily through its principal subsidiary, CNB Bank. CNB Bank is a full-service bank engaging in a full range of banking activities and services, including trust and wealth management services, for individual, business, governmental, and institutional customers. CNB Bank operations include a private banking division, one loan production office, one drive-up office, one mobile office, and 56 full-service offices in Pennsylvania, Ohio, New York, and Virginia. CNB Bank, headquartered in Clearfield, Pennsylvania, with offices in Central and North Central Pennsylvania, serves as the multi-brand parent to various divisions. These divisions include ERIEBANK, based in Erie, Pennsylvania, with offices in Northwest Pennsylvania and Northeast Ohio; FCBank, based in Worthington, Ohio, with offices in Central Ohio; BankOnBuffalo, based in Buffalo, New York, with offices in Western New York; Ridge View Bank, based in Roanoke, Virginia, with offices in the Southwest Virginia region; and Impressia Bank, a division focused on banking opportunities for women, which operates in CNB Bank’s primary market areas. Additional information about CNB Financial Corporation may be found at www.CNBBank.bank.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This communication contains forward-looking statements as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements about CNB and its industry involve substantial risks and uncertainties. Statements other than statements of current or historical fact, including statements regarding CNB’s future financial condition, results of operations, business plans, liquidity, cash flows, projected costs, and the impact of any laws or regulations applicable to CNB, are forward-looking statements. Words such as “anticipates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “expects,” “forecasts,” “intends,” “plans,” “projects,” “may,” “will,” “should” and other similar expressions are intended to identify these forward-looking statements. Such statements are subject to factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from anticipated results.

    Among the risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from those described in the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to the following: (i) the ability to complete the proposed merger with ESSA on the proposed terms or on the anticipated timeline, or at all, including the risk that governmental approvals of the merger may not be obtained, or adverse regulatory conditions may be imposed in connection with governmental approvals of the merger and risks and uncertainties related to securing the necessary shareholder approvals and satisfaction of other closing conditions to consummate the proposed merger; (ii) the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstance that could give rise to the termination of the merger agreement relating to the proposed merger; (iii) risks related to diverting the attention of management from ongoing business operations; (iv) failure to realize the expected benefits of the proposed merger; (v) significant transaction costs and/or unknown or inestimable liabilities; (vi) the risk of shareholder litigation in connection with the proposed merger, including resulting expense or delay; (vii) the risk that ESSA’s business will not be integrated successfully or that such integration may be more difficult, time-consuming or costly than expected; (viii) risks related to future opportunities and plans for the combined company, including the uncertainty of expected future financial performance and results of the combined company following completion of the proposed merger; (ix) the effect of the announcement of the proposed merger on the ability of CNB to operate its business and retain and hire key personnel and to maintain favorable business relationships; (x) risks related to the market value of the CNB common stock to be issued in the proposed merger; (xi) other risks related to the completion of the proposed merger and actions related thereto; (xii) the dilution caused by CNB’s issuance of additional shares of its capital stock in connection with the proposed merger; (xiii) national, international, regional and local economic and political climates and conditions; (xiv) changes in general economic conditions, including changes in market interest rates and changes in monetary and fiscal policies of the federal government; and (xv) legislative and regulatory changes. Further information about these and other relevant risks and uncertainties may be found in CNB’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024 and in subsequent filings CNB makes with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”).

    Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. CNB does not undertake, and specifically disclaims any obligation, to publicly release the result of any revisions which may be made to any forward-looking statements to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events or circumstances after the date of such statements. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements.

    Additional Information and Where to Find It

    In connection with the proposed merger, CNB filed with the SEC a registration statement on Form S-4, as amended (File No. 333-285096), that includes a document that serves as a prospectus of CNB and a joint proxy statement of CNB and ESSA (the “joint proxy statement/prospectus”). CNB and ESSA also plan to file other relevant documents with the SEC regarding the proposed merger. INVESTORS AND SECURITY HOLDERS ARE URGED TO READ THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON FORM S-4, THE JOINT PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS INCLUDED WITHIN THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON FORM S-4, AND ANY OTHER RELEVANT DOCUMENTS FILED OR TO BE FILED WITH THE SEC WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE, AS WELL AS ANY AMENDMENTS OR SUPPLEMENTS TO THOSE DOCUMENTS, BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT CNB, ESSA AND THE PROPOSED MERGER. You may obtain a free copy of the registration statement, including the joint proxy statement/prospectus and other relevant documents filed by CNB and ESSA with the SEC, without charge, at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Copies of the documents filed by CNB with the SEC are available free of charge on CNB’s website at www.cnbbank.bank or by directing a request to CNB Financial Corporation, 1 South Second Street, PO Box 42, Clearfield, PA, attention: Treasurer, telephone (814) 765-9621.

    No Offer

    This communication does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities. No offering of securities shall be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of Section 10 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and otherwise in accordance with applicable law.

    Participants in the Solicitation

    CNB and its directors and executive officers and other members of management and employees may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies in respect of the proposed merger. You can find information about CNB’s executive officers and directors in the joint proxy statement/prospectus. Additional information regarding the interests of such potential participants are included in the joint proxy statement/prospectus and other relevant documents filed with the SEC when they become available. You may obtain free copies of these documents from CNB using the sources indicated above.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: MEXC 7th Anniversary Celebration Unveils Milestone Events and 10M USDT Prize Pool

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, April 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MEXC, a leading global cryptocurrency exchange, is celebrating its 7th anniversary with a global campaign featuring a 10,000,000 USDT prize pool. The milestone event invites users worldwide to compete, collect, and earn through a dynamic three-part celebration, marking not just MEXC’s seven-year journey, but the start of its next chapter in innovation and community empowerment.

    The MEXC 7th Anniversary Celebration Event will be divided into three exciting arenas: Team PNL Rate Competition, Collect, Assemble & Win, and a Solo Leaderboard Battle. Each arena features a generous prize pool, with a total prize pool of up to 10,000,000 USDT. Through various events and rule structures, MEXC offers opportunities for both individual participants and teams to showcase their trading skills and strategies, ensuring that users with diverse needs can earn substantial rewards.

    Key Timeline

    • Team Leader Registration Period: Apr 7, 2025, 10:00 (UTC) – Apr 13, 2025, 15:29 (UTC)
    • Team Member Registration Period: Apr 7, 2025, 10:00 (UTC) – May 4, 2025, 15:55 (UTC)
    • Competition Period: Apr 13, 2025, 16:00 (UTC) – May 4, 2025, 15:59 (UTC)
    • Extended Draw Period: May 4, 2025, 16:00 (UTC) – May 7, 2025, 15:59 (UTC)

    Three Arenas, One Celebration

    1. Team PNL Rate Competition
    Teams compete based on PNL rate, with the top 10 teams sharing 25% of the total prize pool. Leaders and high-performing members receive boosted rewards. Eligible participants must reach a minimum Futures trading volume of 200,000 USDT.

    2. Collect, Assemble & Win
    In this arena, which offers 40% of the prize pool, participants complete tasks to collect Spot, Futures, and DEX+ fragments and forge them into mystery boxes. Every box contains guaranteed random rewards of up to 7,777 USDT.

    3. Solo Leaderboard Battle
    Here, individual traders compete in two rankings: Daily Trading Volume and PNL. A combined 35% of the prize pool is distributed across the top traders, with a minimum entry volume of 20,000 USDT in USDT-M Futures.

    Beyond the competitive formats, the event also includes exclusive anniversary easter eggs that elevate the overall experience. Both the registration and competition periods span 7 days, a symbolic nod to MEXC’s seven-year milestone anniversary celebration. Long-time users can unlock up to 100 USDT in bonuses — a gesture of appreciation for their continued loyalty. Whether joining as a team or going solo, users can enjoy a more gamified, collaborative event structure that reflects MEXC’s continuous push to innovate and engage its global community.

    Built for More than Seven

    Since its establishment in 2018, MEXC has achieved a series of remarkable milestones: from a startup exchange to becoming the industry leader in liquidity, from the MX token reaching new all-time highs (ATH), to surpassing over 36 million users across more than 170 countries and regions. These achievements not only demonstrate MEXC’s strength in the cryptocurrency trading field but also its determination for continuous innovation and market expansion.

    As MEXC celebrates its 7th anniversary, the platform credits its progress to the trust and support of its users — a driving force behind every milestone. In an industry defined by constant change, that support has empowered MEXC to keep evolving, pushing boundaries, and building with long-term vision.

    “Our journey has always been shaped by our users,” said Tracy Jin, COO at MEXC. “Their belief in what we’re building is what fuels us to keep delivering better products, smarter tools, and a stronger community experience. As we celebrate seven years of growth, this milestone reflects not just our past achievements but also the future we are building together. Every challenge and triumph highlights our commitment to innovation, resilience, and, above all, our global community. Moving forward, we will continue to expand our business and services, focusing on our core strengths: the widest selection of tokens, the fastest listing speed, low trading fees, and high liquidity to provide users with a seamless, low-barrier digital asset trading experience.”

    Now, as it looks ahead to the next chapter, MEXC remains focused on innovation, resilience, and deepening its connection with users across the globe.

    For more details and to participate, visit here.

    About MEXC
    Founded in 2018, MEXC is committed to being “Your Easiest Way to Crypto.” Serving over 36 million users across 170+ countries, MEXC is known for its broad selection of trending tokens, everyday airdrop opportunities, and low trading fees. Our user-friendly platform is designed to support both new traders and experienced investors, offering secure and efficient access to digital assets. MEXC prioritizes simplicity and innovation, making crypto trading more accessible and rewarding.
    MEXC Official Website｜ X ｜ Telegram ｜How to Sign Up on MEXC

    Source

    Contact:
    Lucia Hu
    lucia.hu@mexc.com

    Disclaimer: This press release is provided by MEXC. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector–including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining–complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release.Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose.Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/15604f1b-192b-4c67-974d-c5266d780d1a

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI China: China continues to support urban renewal projects in 2025

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

    BEIJING, April 8 — The Chinese central government will continue to support urban renewal projects this year, focusing on addressing the pressing concerns of the people and driving high-quality urban development, the Ministry of Finance announced Tuesday.

    According to a statement on the ministry’s website, the government will explore ways to establish a sustainable urban renewal mechanism, tackle gaps and weaknesses in urban infrastructure, and boost the construction of consumption-oriented infrastructure.

    In 2025, financial support for urban renewal will target large cities and metropolises, with no more than 20 cities selected. Priority will be given to mega and super-large cities, as well as large cities along key river basins such as the Yellow River and the Pearl River.

    The central government will provide fixed subsidies to the selected cities based on their regions. Specifically, the total subsidy per city in the eastern region will not exceed 800 million yuan (about 111.05 million U.S. dollars), in the central region not more than 1 billion yuan, and in the western region and for municipalities directly under the jurisdiction by the central government, not more than 1.2 billion yuan. Funds will be allocated annually according to the progress of the projects.

    The selected cities are expected to use the subsidy to significantly improve urban underground pipelines and other infrastructure within three years.

    The efficiency of domestic sewage collection and treatment will be further enhanced in the selected cities, and the living environments in old urban areas will see remarkable advancements, according to the statement. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Security and renewal at heart of plans for steel sector

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Security and renewal at heart of plans for steel sector

    The Government has hosted the second meeting of the Steel Council today, and reiterated its commitment to British steelmaking.

    • Steel sector, union and trade body leaders meet Government to drive forward development of its steel plan as part of drive towards industrial renewal.
    • Industry Minister restates the Government’s commitment to British-made steel, including energy cost relief for businesses expected to be worth over £300m in 2025 alone.
    • Government is reviewing nearly 100 responses to its steel consultation as it brings forward plans to help the industry secure jobs and deliver economic growth across the UK, as part of its Plan for Change.

    Steel sector leaders were reassured about the Government’s plans to revitalise British steelmaking today (8 April) at the second meeting of the Steel Council, bringing together industry leaders to feed into amid global concerns around US tariffs on steel and aluminium.

    Industry Minister Sarah Jones hosted the meeting earlier today after the Government’s steel plan green paper consultation closed on 30 March, receiving almost 100 responses and recommendations from business leaders and industry experts.

    The meeting follow’s the Prime Minister’s speech yesterday where he pledged to do the right thing by the UK’s national interest, prioritising security and renewal in a changing world.

    Minister Jones reiterated the Government’s firm support for industry and its role in delivering economic growth, as well as in the context of global tariffs on steel and aluminium imposed by the US. She assured Steel Council members the Government is continuing to do all it can to stand up for the sector.

    The meeting comes as the Government continues to work round the clock to protect jobs at British Steel in Scunthorpe.

    CEOs of steel firms including Tata, Liberty, British Steel and others joined leaders from trade unions and the industry’s trade association UK Steel to discuss the sector’s future and the challenges facing it.

    Industry Minister Sarah Jones said:

    We know this is a concerning time for our steel industry in the face of global challenges. That’s why we’re working in lockstep with industry to drive forward our steel plan so it can help the sector secure jobs, deliver growth and power the modern economy.

    This government will always stand up for UK steelmaking, and where others may talk tough, we are acting, with money ready to go to back up British industry. With our steel plan we’re placing it at the heart of our growth mission, and we’ll keep all options on the table to help steel in the UK thrive and deliver on our Plan for Change.

    The Steel Council’s second meeting comes as the final measure in the Government’s British Industry Supercharger package – the Network Charging Compensation (NCC) scheme – comes into force, bringing energy costs for steel companies and other energy-intensive industries closer in line with other major economies worldwide.

    The first payments to industry from the NCC scheme will be made next month and provide over 15 million in energy price relief for businesses in May alone.

    Once fully implemented, the total value of reduced electricity prices from the Supercharger package is expected to be between 320 million and 410 million in 2025, and more than 5 billion over the next 10 years.

    Background:

    A full list of attendees for the Steel Council meeting is below:

    • British Steel
    • Celsa Steel UK
    • Liberty Steel
    • Marcegagalia Stainless Sheffield Ltd
    • Sheffield Forgemasters
    • TATA Steel
    • UK Steel
    • British Metals Recycling Association
    • Materials Processing Institute
    • WMG High Value Manufacturing Catapult
    • Community Union
    • GMB Union
    • Scottish Government
    • Welsh Government
    • Northern Ireland’s Department for the Economy

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Law Library Publishes New Report Titled “Israel: Interstate Legal Assistance”

    Source: US Global Legal Monitor

    The Law Library of Congress recently published a report, Israel: Interstate Legal Assistance, which addresses the conditions, scope, and procedures for provision of legal assistance to foreign states under Israel’s Interstate Legal Assistance Law, 5758-1998, as amended.

    In accordance with Israel‘s Interstate Legal Assistance Law, 5758-1998, as amended, legal assistance to other countries may be provided in connection with the service of documents, collection of evidence, and other legal actions related to civil or criminal matters. The competent authority to receive and decide on requests for legal assistance in Israel under the law is the Minister of Justice or the minister’s designee. To be considered, the request must be submitted on behalf of a competent foreign authority, the designation of which is conveyed to its Israeli counterpart.

    Assistance is not provided, among other reasons, in connection with arrest or other procedure pending extradition, or in connection with an offense considered a military offense, or offenses of a political nature under definitions provided in the law. The law provides for the procedures that must be followed by foreign states in filing requests for interstate legal assistance.

    To find out more, we invite you to review our report, here. 

    Information on Israel’s extradition law and procedures is available at a Law Library report titled Israel: Extradition Law Evolution from Sheinbein to Rosenstein. Note that we have also previously blogged on the Sheinbein Saga and the Evolution of Israel’s Extradition Law.

    Our recently published report on Israel’s interstate legal assistance is an addition to the Law Library’s Legal Reports (Publications of the Law Library of Congress) collection, which includes over 4,000 historical and contemporary legal reports covering a variety of jurisdictions, researched and written by foreign law specialists with expertise in each area. To receive alerts when new reports are published, you can subscribe to email updates and the RSS feed for Law Library Reports (click the “subscribe” button on the Law Library’s website). The Law Library also regularly publishes articles related to Israel in the Global Legal Monitor.

    Subscribe to In Custodia Legis – it’s free! – to receive interesting posts drawn from the Law Library of Congress’s vast collections and our staff’s expertise in U.S., foreign, and international law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: O2Gold Announces C$1.5M Non-Brokered Private Placement Financings

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWS WIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE U.S.

    TORONTO, April 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — O2Gold Inc. (NEX:OTGO.H) (“O2Gold” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce that it intends to complete best efforts non-brokered private placement hard dollar and flow-through financings for gross proceeds of up to $700,000 and $800,000, respectively (the “Offerings”). The Company anticipates that up to 14,000,000 units (each, a “Unit”) and up to 16,000,000 common shares of the Company will be issued pursuant to the hard dollar and flow-through Offerings at a price of $0.05 per Unit and $0.05 per common share, respectively. Each common share will be issued on a “flow-through basis”. Each Unit will consist of one common share of the Company and one common share purchase warrant (each a “Warrant”). Each Warrant will entitle the holder to acquire one additional common share of the Company at a price of $0.10 for a period of 24 months from issuance.

    The Company anticipates using the net proceeds of the Offerings for general corporate purposes and to fund the phase one exploration expenses on a 9,000 hectare claim package in southern Abitibi located near the city of Rouyn-Noranda that O2Gold intends to acquire through the purchase of all of the issued and outstanding shares of Quebec Aur Ltd. (the “Acquisition”). The area has recently become attractive to new exploration campaigns by First Mining Gold and Kenorland who both have multi-million dollar exploration plans announced in the area for 2025.

    The parties continue to work diligently to complete the remaining legal formalities in relation to the Acquisition, which is now expected to close in April 2025, subject to the satisfaction or waiver of certain conditions. The Acquisition is more fully described in the Company’s press releases dated April 15, 2024, April 23, 2024, April 24, 2024, May 30, 2024, and August 23, 2024, as well as the Company’s management information circular (the “Circular”) which was mailed to shareholders of record as of August 26, 2024. The press releases and Circular are available under O2Gold’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

    Closing of the Offerings is expected to occur in April 2025. All securities issued in connection with the Offerings will be subject to a statutory hold period of four-months and one day. Completion of the Offerings is subject to a number of conditions, including all approvals from the TSX Venture Exchange (“TSXV”). Finder’s fees may be paid to eligible finders in accordance with the policies of the TSXV consisting of a cash commission equal to up to 7% of the gross proceeds raised under the Offerings and finder warrants (“Finder Warrants”) in an amount equal to up to 7% of the number of common shares and Units sold pursuant to the Offerings. Each Finder Warrant will entitle the holder thereof to purchase one common share of the Company at a price of $0.10 per share for a period of 24 months following the closing date of the Offerings.

    The launch of the Offerings follows the termination by the Company of its previously announced non-brokered private placement financing of 15 million subscription receipts and 15 million flow-through subscription receipts for aggregate gross proceeds to the Company of $1.5 million (the “Initial Offering”), with which the Company decided not to proceed. The Initial Offering is more fully described in the Company’s press release dated October 22, 2024. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities in the United States or any other jurisdiction. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “U.S. Securities Act“) or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold in the United States or to U.S. persons or in any other jurisdiction in which such offer or sale would be unlawful prior to registration under U.S. Securities Act of 1933 and applicable state securities laws or an exemption therefrom or qualification under the securities laws of such other jurisdiction or an exemption therefrom, respectively.

    About O2Gold

    O2Gold is a mineral exploration company.
    For additional information, please contact:
    Scott Moore, Chief Executive Officer
    Phone: (416) 861-1685
    Email: smoore@miningsm.com

    Regulatory Statements

    This press release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to the Acquisition and the Offering, including the Company’s intended use of proceeds, closing conditions and timing, and other matters related thereto. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “plans”, “expects” or “does not expect”, “is expected”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “estimates”, “forecasts”, “intends”, “anticipates” or “does not anticipate”, or “believes”, or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will be taken”, “occur” or “be achieved”. Forward-looking information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company, as the case may be, to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including but not limited to: receipt of necessary approvals; general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties; future mineral prices and market demand; accidents, labour disputes and shortages and other risks of the mining industry. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.

    NEITHER TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Abaxx Provides Q1 2025 Corporate Update

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, April 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Abaxx Technologies Inc. (CBOE:ABXX)(OTCQX:ABXXF) (“Abaxx” or the “Company”), a financial software and market infrastructure company, majority shareholder of Abaxx Singapore Pte Ltd., the owner of Abaxx Commodity Exchange and Clearinghouse (individually, “Abaxx Exchange” and “Abaxx Clearing”), and producer of the SmarterMarkets™ Podcast, provides an update on operational milestones and the continued execution of the Company’s business strategy in the first quarter of 2025.

    The Company also announces that it plans to host an investor call and presentation on Thursday, April 10th. For more information, see “Q1 2025 Business Update Investor Call” below.

    Abaxx Corporate Milestone Highlights

    Commercial Development

    • Executed the Company’s first trades in Nickel Sulphate and Lithium Carbonate Futures, including the world’s first trade of a non-Chinese, USD-denominated and physically-deliverable Lithium Carbonate Futures contract.
    • The Company saw the first OTC LNG cargo trade indexed to Abaxx LNG Futures (see the Company’s press release from March 24, 2025).
    • Established active market makers in all three LNG contracts and both carbon contracts across our trading hours.
    • A total of six clearing firms, 29 trading firms, and 14 interdealer brokers (IDBs) are now connected to Abaxx Exchange and Clearing, with an additional four clearing firms, 12 trading firms, and 12 IDBs currently in progress.
    • Completed the first brand listing under the Lithium Carbonate Futures contract.
    • Finalized onboarding with a major global data distribution network expected to expand visibility of Abaxx markets to over 100 million viewers. Added six new market data partners in Q1 2025, bringing the total to six.
    • Engaged in exploratory discussions with an external exchange group seeking to use Abaxx Clearing for third-party clearing services, and also engaged in exploratory discussions with external exchange groups based in China to collaborate on cross-jurisdictional (i.e. onshore/offshore) product listing opportunities with Abaxx Exchange and Clearing.

    Exchange Product Development

    • Launched four new battery metals contracts in Q1 2025, including Nickel Sulphate Futures and three regional physically-deliverable Lithium Carbonate Futures contracts.
    • Submitted a 1-kilobar Singapore Gold Futures contract for regulatory review.
    • Currently in the final development stage of: (i) a financially-settled copper spread contract to support price transparency in global base metals markets, and (ii) the first contracts in a suite of weather futures.

    Risk and Regulatory Development

    • Applied to the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) for recognition as a Foreign Board of Trade (FBOT).
    • Completed public consultation on rule amendments to introduce additional currencies as acceptable margin collateral.
    • Convened the inaugural meeting of its Risk Advisory Panel and successfully executed a default management fire drill.

    Systems and Operations Development

    • Expanded system capabilities to support multi-currency settlement and collateralization, with projected completion by May 2025.
    • Completed the upgrade of Verifier+ (a digital credentials storage provider) into the Abaxx Trade Registration Platform.
    • Continued progress on ISO/IEC 27001 audit for Abaxx Exchange infrastructure, with certification targeted for June 2025.
    • Enhanced client onboarding workflows and expanded market data access to support growing participant demand.

    Abaxx Console Suite Development

    • Rolled out Verifier+ v2.0 with expanded capabilities and integrated the app with Abaxx Exchange to enable passwordless login for the Abaxx Trade Registration Platform (ATRP).
    • Advanced Abaxx Messenger into pre-release testing as a member support tool for Abaxx Exchange.
    • Reached the initial development milestone for Abaxx Sign, currently progressing through testing and feedback with design partners.
    • Initiated development of AbaxxOne, a middleware solution connecting enterprise identity systems (e.g., Auth0, Okta) to ID++ and the Abaxx Console Suite.

    Financing Development

    • On March 27, 2025, the Company announced it had closed the first tranche of a non-brokered private placement, securing C$22.85 million through the issuance of secured convertible debentures bearing 7.0% annual interest, convertible at C$13.00 per share and maturing in 2028. The Company is currently in discussions for a potential second tranche (see the Company’s press release dated March 27, 2025).

    Following the successful launch of Abaxx Exchange and Abaxx Clearing in mid-2024, the first quarter of 2025 marked a period of accelerated growth across product development, commercial engagement, and systems expansion. First trades were executed in the Nickel Sulphate and Lithium Carbonate markets, alongside the first OTC LNG cargo trade indexed to Abaxx LNG Futures, reflecting early adoption of our benchmark contracts.

    We launched four new contracts across our battery metals product suite and submitted a 1-kilobar Singapore Gold Futures contract to support Asia’s kilobar market, an offering not currently matched in London or New York. In parallel, we incorporated Abaxx Spot, a separate entity designed to support convergence between futures and physical gold markets. While the gold futures contract will be listed by Abaxx Exchange, Abaxx Spot enables electronic settlement and physical delivery of 99.99% purity kilobars in Singapore through a secure, transparent gold pool. Together, these initiatives advance our vision of building smarter markets for physical gold trading. Onboarding momentum continued through targeted, on-the-ground engagement at commercial events globally.

    We also scaled platform infrastructure, enhancing client onboarding workflows, expanding market data access, and progressing toward ISO 27001 certification. Core protocol development advanced with upgrades to the ID++ protocol and Verifier+, the initiation of AbaxxOne middleware, and continued development of Abaxx Messenger.

    The following sections provide further information related to these developments across business units and platform initiatives.

    Abaxx Exchange and Abaxx Clearing Developments

    Risk and Regulatory: Abaxx Exchange submitted its application to the U.S. CFTC for recognition as a Foreign Board of Trade (FBOT). Once granted, this recognition would enable U.S. trading participants to directly access products listed on Abaxx Exchange. In February, the Company completed a public consultation on rule amendments to support the introduction of additional currencies as acceptable margin collateral. These amendments are now under regulatory review, with the final list of approved currencies to be announced in due course.

    The Company also convened the inaugural meeting of its Risk Advisory Panel on March 17, 2025 with participation from all three direct clearing members. The Risk Advisory Panel serves as a forum for ongoing collaboration between the clearinghouse and its members to strengthen risk management, transparency, and operational resilience. In late March, Abaxx Clearing conducted its first default management firedrill with member participation, a process which validated its preparedness to manage member defaults and execute crisis response procedures effectively.

    Commercial: The Abaxx Commercial team secured market participation leading to the first trades in Nickel Sulphate and Lithium Carbonate Futures during the first quarter of 2025, including the world’s first trade of a non-Chinese, USD-denominated and physically-deliverable Lithium Carbonate Futures contract. The quarter also saw the first OTC LNG cargo trade indexed to Abaxx LNG Futures, reflecting growing confidence in Abaxx’s benchmark contracts. Active market makers were established across all three LNG contracts and both carbon contracts during core trading hours.

    Onboarding efforts continued across firm types. Abaxx maintained six active clearing members and non-direct clearing firm connections, with four additional clearers, that include global bank clearers, currently in progress to establish new clearing connectivity. Twenty-nine trading firms comprised of merchant traders and financial trading firms are now fully onboarded to execute Block Trades with twelve additional firms currently in the onboarding process; clients connected to Abaxx continue to be able to access Abaxx markets through the central limit order book. Fourteen interdealer brokers (IDBs) are onboarded with twelve more in progress. The quarter also included the first brand listing under the Lithium Carbonate Futures contract.

    Abaxx representatives participated in over 300 high-level meetings across 10 global industry events in Q1 2025. Executives were featured on panels at both E-World and the FT Commodities Global Summit, supporting commercial visibility and momentum. Abaxx was also shortlisted for the World LNG Award for Outstanding Contribution 2024.

    To support commercial growth in Asia in Q1, Abaxx expanded marketing efforts in China, including the launch of a dedicated Chinese-language website (https://cn.abaxx.exchange/) and the announcement of a co-hosted Mandarin-language battery metals seminar with Shanghai Metals Market, taking place April 8, 2025. The team also engaged in exploratory discussions with an external exchange group seeking to use Abaxx Clearing for third-party clearing services, and also engaged in exploratory discussions with external exchange groups based in China to collaborate on cross-jurisdictional (i.e. onshore/offshore) product listing opportunities with Abaxx Exchange and Clearing.

    To support broader market visibility, Abaxx Exchange launched abaxx.exchange/marketdata to provide access to market data publicly. Abaxx also formally launched its market data program in Q1, with six partners onboarded to date: five subscribers and one redistributor. Progress is underway to onboard multiple data distributors, including the leading global financial data provider currently in technical integration, another with a distribution network expected to extend Abaxx market visibility to over 100 million viewers, as well as additional partners supporting our broader data distribution strategy.

    Systems and Operations: Abaxx Exchange and Abaxx Clearing continued to operate reliably with no downtime since launch, supporting stable onboarding and trading. Systems testing is underway to support multi-currency settlement and collateralization, with rollout on track for completion by May 2025. The ISO/IEC 27001 audit for Abaxx Exchange infrastructure is in progress, with certification targeted for June 2025.

    The Company continues to enhance client onboarding workflows to ensure a seamless experience for market participants. In parallel, integration work is advancing across major market data vendors to expand access to Abaxx Exchange market data and meet growing participant demand.

    Exchange Product Development: Development of the Gold Singapore Futures contract progressed through Stage 3 (Industry Review/Risk/Regulatory), with launch planning underway. Abaxx also advanced a regional copper spread futures contract, a suite of weather derivatives, and carbon market contracts aligned with regional compliance programs, each currently in Stage 3. Certain weather and compliance carbon futures are expected to become the first Abaxx contracts priced in currencies other than U.S. dollars.

    Enhancements to the LNG contract suite included updates to the LNG Northwest Europe contract to incorporate Phase 2 compliance requirements under the EU Methane Regulation. Additional research is underway to update the list of eligible ports, including newly commissioned infrastructure. As of April 4, 2025, Calcasieu Pass LNG was added as an Eligible Loading Port under the Abaxx LNG Gulf of Mexico Futures Contract.

    Phase 2 work also continued on contract extensions designed to complement Abaxx benchmark products, as well as on meeting regulatory requirements for a suite of physically and financially-settled options.

    Additional Corporate Updates

    Abaxx Console Apps:   The Company released upgrades to the ID++ protocol and Verifier+ in Q1 2025, including integrations with Abaxx Exchange and SmarterMarkets Coffeehouse™. Verifier+ improvements followed its public release on the Apple App Store and Google Play, with enhanced app speed, simplified account recovery, broader device compatibility, and expanded user controls for account editing and deletion. Device-native features such as PIN entry and camera functionality were also upgraded.

    Messenger is in its final stages of pre-release testing ahead of deployment as a user support tool for Abaxx Exchange. Feature development for initial release is complete, with improvements to maintaining performance at scale now in testing. These include faster load times for messages, improved performance under load, and interface tools that help support teams manage multiple, ongoing conversations.

    Development of AbaxxOne was initiated as a middleware solution connecting enterprise identity systems (e.g., Auth0, Okta) to the Abaxx ecosystem.

    Abaxx Sign reached its initial functional milestone and is now progressing through internal testing and design partner feedback cycles.

    Integration of PrivacyCode progressed in Q1, with Verifier+ now available as a login option. This marks continued growth in the number of applications and platforms offering Verifier+ as a privacy-enabled authentication method across the Abaxx ecosystem.

    SmarterMarkets™: SmarterMarkets™ conducted on-site interviews at key industry events hosted by the Futures Industry Association and Financial Times in Q1 2025, capturing real-time insights from global market participants for upcoming compilation episodes. These conversations contribute to the ongoing dialogue around the future of energy, climate, technology, and finance — conversations that the SmarterMarkets Coffeehouse platform is designed to elevate.

    Development also began on the mobile application for SmarterMarkets Coffeehouse™, and contributor onboarding was completed for the first cohort of over 50 thought leaders across energy, AI, digital identity, carbon, and market infrastructure. Early contributors have begun publishing content on the platform. By combining verifiable credentials with tiered levels of access, Coffeehouse is designed to facilitate more open and trusted dialogue than traditional social media environments currently support.

    Those interested in joining as commenters or members can join the waitlist at https://smartermarkets.media/waitlist/.

    Q1 2025 Business Update Investor Call

    The Company plans to host a quarterly business update investor presentation, to provide a business update and respond to investor questions.

    The Company will hold the investor presentation via Zoom Meetings on Thursday, April 10th, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Standard Time Zone (EST). The Company invites current and prospective shareholders to attend this quarterly business update and Q&A session with the Abaxx executive team. Attendees may email their questions in advance to ir@abaxx.tech.

    Registration will be required to access the meeting. Following the presentation, a recording of the session will be made available on the Abaxx Investor Relations website at investors.abaxx.tech.

    PRESENTATION DETAILS
    DATE: Thursday, April 10, 2025
    TIME: 10:00 a.m. EST
    LOCATION: Zoom Meeting
    To receive the meeting link and passcode, please register here.
    QUESTIONS: Please submit questions ahead of the presentation to: ir@abaxx.tech

    About Abaxx Technologies

    Abaxx is building Smarter Markets — markets empowered by better financial technology and market infrastructure to address our biggest challenges, including the energy transition. In addition to developing and deploying financial technologies that make communication, trade, and transactions easier and more secure, Abaxx is a majority-owner of Abaxx Exchange and Abaxx Clearing, subsidiaries recognized by MAS as an RMO and ACH, respectively.

    Abaxx Exchange and Abaxx Clearing are a Singapore-based commodity futures exchange and clearinghouse, introducing centrally cleared, physically deliverable commodities futures and derivatives to provide better price discovery and risk management tools for the commodities critical to our transition to a lower-carbon economy.

    For more information please visit abaxx.tech, abaxx.exchange and smartermarkets.media.

    For more information about this press release, please contact:
    Steve Fray, CFO
    Tel: +1 647 490 1590

    Media and investor inquiries:
    Abaxx Technologies Inc.
    Investor Relations Team
    Tel: +1 647 490 1590
    E-mail: ir@abaxx.tech

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release includes certain “forward-looking statements” which do not consist of historical facts. Forward-looking statements include estimates and statements that describe Abaxx’s future plans, objectives, or goals, including words to the effect that Abaxx expects a stated condition or result to occur. Forward-looking statements may be identified by such terms as “seeking”, “should”, “intend”, “predict”, “potential”, “believes”, “anticipates”, “expects”, “estimates”, “may”, “could”, “would”, “will”, “continue”, “plan” or the negative of these terms and similar expressions. Since forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and assumptions and address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Although these statements are based on information currently available to Abaxx, Abaxx does not provide any assurance that actual results will meet respective management expectations. Risks, uncertainties, assumptions, and other factors involved with forward- looking information could cause actual events, results, performance, prospects, and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information.

    Forward-looking information related to Abaxx in this press release includes, but is not limited to: the business plans and objectives of Abaxx; the development of new products, futures contracts, markets and technologies and associated benefits; anticipated receipt of regulatory approvals; closing of a second tranche offering of secured convertible debentures; and onboarding of clearing members and firms. Such factors impacting forward-looking information include, among others: the inability to receive regulatory approvals in connection with financings or inability to finalize transaction documentation; risks relating to the global economic climate; dilution; Abaxx’s limited operating history; future capital needs and uncertainty of additional financing; the competitive nature of the industry; currency exchange risks; the need for Abaxx to manage its planned growth and expansion; the effects of product development and need for continued technology change; protection of proprietary rights; the effect of government regulation and compliance on Abaxx and the industry; acquiring and maintaining regulatory approvals for Abaxx’s products and operations; the ability to list Abaxx’s securities on stock exchanges in a timely fashion or at all; network security risks; the ability of Abaxx to maintain properly working systems; reliance on key personnel; global economic and financial market deterioration impeding access to capital or increasing the cost of capital; and volatile securities markets impacting security pricing unrelated to operating performance. In addition, particular factors which could impact future results of the business of Abaxx include but are not limited to: operations in foreign jurisdictions, protection of intellectual property rights, contractual risk, third-party risk; clearinghouse risk, malicious actor risks, third-party software license risk, system failure risk, risk of technological change; dependence of technical infrastructure; and changes in the price of commodities, capital market conditions, restriction on labor and international travel and supply chains, and the risk factors identified in the Company’s most recent management discussion & analysis filed on SEDAR+. Abaxx has also assumed that no significant events occur outside of Abaxx’s normal course of business.

    Abaxx cautions that the foregoing list of material factors is not exhaustive. In addition, although Abaxx has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated, or intended. When relying on forward- looking statements and information to make decisions, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and potential events. Abaxx has assumed that the material factors referred to in the previous paragraphs will not cause such forward-looking statements and information to differ materially from actual results or events. However, the list of these factors is not exhaustive and is subject to change and there can be no assurance that such assumptions will reflect the actual outcome of such items or factors. The forward-looking statements and information contained in this press release represents the expectations of Abaxx as of the date of this press release and, accordingly, is subject to change after such date. Abaxx undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements and information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. Accordingly, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements and information. Cboe Canada does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: No major gaffes and no knockout punch: the first leaders’ debate was a pedestrian affair

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Andy Marks, Vice-President, Public Affairs and Partnerships, Western Sydney University

    Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton have faced off in the first leaders’ debate of the 2025 federal election. The debate, hosted by Sky News and The Daily Telegraph, was held at the Wenty Leagues Club in Sydney’s western suburbs, where an audience of 100 undecided voters asked questions of both leaders.

    All the expected topics were canvassed, including the cost of living, the economy, housing, health and education, immigration, the war in Gaza, and of course US President Donald Trump. So how did the two leaders shape up? Three expert authors give their analysis.

    Andy Marks, Western Sydney University

    A funny thing happened on the way to the “people’s forum”. It reverted to a festival of rhetoric. The first federal election leaders’ debate between Anthony Albanese and Peter Dutton began personably.

    The Sky News debate saw Anthony and Peter – yes, first names only – take questions from the floor. It could have been the local sports team’s AGM. It wasn’t.

    “Who’s doing it tough?” Sky News host Kieren Gilbert asked the audience. A sprinkle of hands, some reluctant, some defiant, rose.

    “That was a very confronting scene,” Dutton remarked. “To see that many hands go up”, he added, reflected what he had seen throughout the government’s term: “people in tears” because they couldn’t cope with rising costs.

    Albanese took a different approach. “Wages are up. Unemployment is low,” he said. The election, he argued, is about “what happens next”. The road ahead, he commented, was uncertain. “The world has thrown a lot of challenges at us. We’ve responded the Australian way.”

    The focus was on ideal versus experience. “All you need is your Medicare card, not your credit card,” Albanese assured a questioner of his commitment to lift bulk-billed healthcare.

    Dutton turned that proposition around, asking the questioner, “What’s your experience? Do you use your Medicare card, or your credit card too?” It was his most effective moment.

    Albanese went full-Rudd zinger on energy. “The only gas policy the Coalition has is the gaslighting of the Australian public.”

    When Albanese and Dutton were unleashed on each other, the debate descended into the usual contest over conflicting accounts of surplus records.

    When it mattered, however – when audience members had the floor – it was a forum on what voters were experiencing, and which leader proved the better listener. That won’t be answered until polling day.

    Andrea Carson, La Trobe University

    Dutton faced a tough start to the first televised leaders’ debate of the 2025 federal election campaign, with reports his father had been rushed to hospital shortly before the cameras rolled.

    But if he was rattled, he didn’t show it. Dutton wasted no time speaking to what he saw as Labor’s weaknesses, beginning with cost of living: power bills up, businesses going bust, grocery prices climbing.

    Meanwhile, Albanese began with a few stammers, but quickly dispelled memories of his 2022 gaffes by confidently rattling off numbers that told a story of economic recovery amid the COVID-induced cost-of-living crisis.

    With the primary vote share at record lows for both major parties, and with more Australians voting for minor parties and independent candidates, this is a crucial time to capture Australian’s attention before early voting opens next Tuesday.

    Whether this debate reaches enough voters behind the News Corp paywall is questionable, but the debate’s soundbites will likely have a longer life than the 60-minute broadcast.

    Using the tricks of the trade, Albanese repeated questioner’s names and thanked them for their service as school teachers and truckies, for caring for children, and for keeping Australia moving. He came ready with a well-worn prop – waving his green and gold Medicare card to spruik his plans to increase bulk billing for GP visits.

    But Dutton wasn’t having a bar of it, stating he had seen the stunt before and that “the Mediscare campaign” continues. Albanese retorted by pointing to Dutton’s track record as health minister, claiming bulk billing was then in freefall. Women in the audience nodded in agreement. It was a little win for Albanese.

    Predictably, both leaders kept to their areas of perceived strength: healthcare and education for Labor; the economy and keeping a lid on immigration for the Coalition. Both skirted the tricky question on the Gaza war – and avoided direct criticism of Trump.

    The debate covered plenty of ground – solar power, fuel excise, cuts to universities’ foreign student numbers – but featured little mention of regional Australia or global security.

    Albanese finished his pitch on a message of “staying the course”. Dutton returned to where he started: the economy, promising the Coalition could do it better, weaving in the threat of a Labor/Greens coalition government.

    There were no fatal blows. Just like the polls, it was too close to call an outright winner. But not to worry. There will be another debate next week, this time on the ABC.

    Emma Shortis, RMIT University

    As someone who spends far too much time focused on US politics, it was a little bit refreshing to watch a debate that was a little bit … boring. Two blokes in suits, badly lit, talking about actual policy. In quite a bit of detail!

    We often worry, with good reason, that Australian politics is being Americanised. Tonight showed that isn’t necessarily the case – in fact, the Trump administration’s dismantling of US democracy didn’t feature much this evening.

    And there certainly weren’t many of the outrageous features of US politics – there was some bluster, of course, and some pretty concerning rhetoric around “immigration” – but this wasn’t anything like the corrosive, paranoid politics of America today.

    Albanese opened the debate by noting that “the world has thrown a lot of challenges at Australia”, without mentioning the United States. That’s despite the fact the second Trump administration has effectively set the agenda of Australian politics for the past week at least.

    But the very first question was about the “Trump pandemic”. Albanese was right to say in his response that Trump’s tariffs are an act of “economic self-harm” by the US. It does seem a stretch to suggest Australia got “a better deal” on tariffs because of representations made by the Australian government. Given what we know about the second Trump administration and its treatment of traditional allies, that seems unlikely.

    Dutton once again made the argument that he would be better placed to negotiate with Trump because of his experience with Trump mark 1. But again, given how the Trump administration is treating America’s traditional allies, that’s not particularly convincing.

    Surprisingly, the AUKUS submarine pact only got a mention right at the end. Albanese affirmed Labor’s support for the deal and said the government wouldn’t link the tariff issue to defence. That might be politically desirable, but it will be increasingly difficult as Trump continues to put pressure on the alliance. If Trump places no value in Australia’s free trade agreement with the US, what reason is there to believe he places any value in any other agreements?

    As more and more attention is focused on what “security” actually means, those arbitrary dividing lines to which Australian politics has been so accustomed – such as the one between our defence and trade relationship with the US – might be becoming a little bit blurrier.

    Emma Shortis is also Director of the Australia Institute’s International & Security Affairs Program.

    Andrea Carson and Andy Marks 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. No major gaffes and no knockout punch: the first leaders’ debate was a pedestrian affair – https://theconversation.com/no-major-gaffes-and-no-knockout-punch-the-first-leaders-debate-was-a-pedestrian-affair-253711

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Immigration Adviser Finder and Register now available

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Immigration Adviser Finder and Register now available

    The technical issues affecting the Immigration Adviser Finder and Adviser Register tools have now been resolved, and both services are fully operational again.

    We apologise for any inconvenience caused during the period of disruption and appreciate your patience while we worked to restore access.

    The Adviser Finder is a user-friendly tool that helps people seeking immigration advice locate registered advisers in their area. The Adviser Register allows the public to check whether an individual or organisation is officially registered with the Immigration Advice Authority (IAA). We encourage anyone seeking immigration advice to use these tools to ensure they are getting advice from someone regulated by the IAA.

    If you experience any further issues, please contact our Customer Service Unit at info@immigrationadviceauthority.gov.uk.

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Investing in community safety

    Source: Scottish Government

    Almost £200,000 to support dog control measures

    Funding for new police vans and training for officers and dog wardens has been agreed following a Responsible Dog Ownership Summit hosted by the Scottish Government.

    Police Scotland has received £166,000 to train officers to identify banned breeds and buy specially-equipped vans to transport dangerous and out of control dogs. The National Dog Warden Association (NDWA) has received £30,000 to train wardens.

    The actions were recommended in a report following the Responsible Dog Ownership Summit last September. The summit brought together Police Scotland, local authorities, veterinary bodies, public health and third sector organisations to consider improvements to dog control and public safety measures.

    Community Safety Minister Siobhian Brown said:

    “The vast majority of dog owners are responsible but it is important that the public are protected from any dogs who do pose a danger.

    “This Scottish Government funding for Police Scotland and the National Dog Warden Association will improve public safety and the control of dangerous dogs. The NDWA training fund will support training for dog wardens who work in our communities to promote responsible dog ownership, advise on dog welfare and enforce legislation.

    “I am grateful to those who took part in the Responsible Dog Ownership Summit and I look forward to continuing to work with partners to explore further steps to improve dog safety and control.”

    Jim Ferguson, Chair of the National Dog Warden Association said:

    “The National Dog Warden Association are proud partners of the Scottish Government and our organisation, which represents Scotland’s local authorities dog wardens, welcomed the Scottish Government Responsible Dog Ownership Summit report and recommendations.  Building on the summit, the NDWA is committed to working with the Scottish Government and other key partners to look at opportunities to review existing policy and pinpoint any opportunities to enhance and strengthen policy in order to better protect people and pets together.”

    Background

    Report on Scottish Government Responsible Dog Ownership Summit – Discussions with key stakeholders on approaches to dog control and dog welfare 20 September 2024 – gov.scot

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The capital has transferred more than 100 plots of land to investors for the development of sports infrastructure

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Since 2016, the city has provided investors with more than 150 hectares of land in all administrative districts of the capital for the construction of sports facilities. This was reported by the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Urban Development Policy and Construction Vladimir Efimov.

    “Investors and developers are actively involved in the development of the capital’s sports infrastructure. For the construction of facilities, the city regularly puts land up for open auctions and provides it as part of large-scale investment projects. Since 2016, 106 plots of land with an area of about 155 hectares have been allocated for the construction of sports complexes. The area of buildings and associated infrastructure will be about 1.2 million square meters,” said Vladimir Efimov.

    Large-scale investment projects (MaIP) have been implemented in Moscow since 2016. Objects aimed at developing urban infrastructure and creating jobs can receive this status.

    “Since 2016, 58 plots with an area of 121 hectares have been transferred to investors for the construction of sports facilities within the framework of the MAIP. In addition, entrepreneurs can obtain land for the construction of sports and recreation complexes by participating in open auctions. All the necessary information can be found on the capital’s investment portal. Over the same period, the winners of the auctions received 48 plots with a total area of almost 34 hectares,” noted the Minister of the Moscow Government, Head of the Department of City Property

    Maxim Gaman.

    For example, in the Kurkino district, a large-scale investment project for the construction of an ice arena has already been implemented on a 1.8-hectare site. It is intended for ice hockey and figure skating training, as well as for choreography classes, general physical training, and team games.

    The Ramenki sports complex was built on a 0.3-hectare site within the framework of the MaIP in the district of the same name. The area of more than six thousand square meters houses a pool for recreational swimming and aqua aerobics, a children’s pool for swimming lessons, a multi-purpose games hall for basketball, volleyball, mini-football and tennis training, a gym, halls for martial arts, boxing, choreography, yoga, Pilates, rhythmic and recreational gymnastics.

    In Zelenograd on Zarechnaya Street, an investor leased a 0.6 hectare plot of land for the construction of a sports and recreation complex as a result of an auction. As a result, a private sports complex with a swimming pool and specialized areas for recreational recreation was opened for local residents.

    In Novo-Peredelkino, the investor leased a land plot of 0.28 hectares in the area of the 11th microdistrict near Borovskoye Highway. The entrepreneur is building a multifunctional sports complex on it.

    Earlier Sergei Sobyanin opened The historic Lokomotiv stadium in Lublin after modernisation.

    The construction of social facilities in Moscow corresponds to the goals and initiatives of the national project “Infrastructure for life”.

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

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/152309073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: UNECE and ISO launch joint initiative on Digital Product Passport to advance sustainability and circular economy

    Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe

    Businesses, policymakers, and consumers alike are striving to make more informed decisions, driving progress toward a sustainable and circular economy. In order to achieve this, solutions are needed to record products’ lifecycles, including their origin, materials, environmental impact, and compliance with sustainability standards. This is key to ensure that information on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) footprints are genuine and thus to combat greenwashing.  

    Despite numerous initiatives around the world, challenges such as data standardization and interoperability remain critical barriers to creating a unified, cross-sector, and globally applicable framework. But solutions are now in sight with the launch of the joint initiative of UNECE and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) on the Digital Product Passport (DPP). Under the leadership of the UN, this initiative aims to balance diverse interests and priorities while fostering alignment across industries and regions. 

    The DPP is envisioned as a game-changing solution that provides the digital “language” and trust architecture for product traceability, from raw materials to the final product. It aims at uplifting and linking all required data, which allows data to remain with the owner, and be published and linked in a decentralized manner, using existing business systems without obliging economic actors along the value chains to depend on the software choices of their customers or suppliers. 

    Alignment with existing UNECE frameworks  

    The DPP initiative aligns with UNECE’s prior work on traceability and transparency, particularly in sectors like garment and footwear, where standardized tools for sustainability data exchange have been developed since 2019. Notable advancements include blockchain pilots (2022–2023) that demonstrated the potential of digital solutions to enhance supply chain visibility and trust. These efforts laid the groundwork for expanding focus to include product circularity data (2023–2024), addressing the growing need for lifecycle transparency.

    Central to this progression is the development of the UN Transparency Protocol (UNTP), which aims to harmonize sustainability data and enable transparency at scale through standardized vocabularies and adaptable sector-specific extensions. By integrating the best practices of the UNTP into the DPP framework, the initiative scales existing successes to meet the demands of an interconnected global economy. 

    Kick-off meeting sets the stage for collaboration 

    The international standard project ISO/PWI 25534-1: Digital Product Passport – Overview and Fundamental Principles was launched with a successful kick-off meeting on 25 February, followed by an Ad Hoc Meeting on 25 March. Together, these sessions brought together over 2,300 global experts, serving as a pivotal platform for stakeholders to refine the scope, priorities, and strategic direction of the DPP initiative. The discussions were further enriched by insights gathered through an online stakeholder survey, ensuring that the project reflects a broad range of industry perspectives and practical needs. 

    Respondents emphasized the need for DPP coverage across the entire supply chain, including raw materials, intermediate products, and end-of-life stages. Key DPP data expected to be included involves product conformity certificates, recycled content, hazardous materials, environmental footprints, and traceability records. However, major interoperability challenges were identified, and adoption barriers and regulatory support emerged as crucial themes. Notably, 89% of respondents believe governments should recommend a global DPP standard, underscoring the importance of regulatory support in driving the initiative forward.  

    Looking ahead: industry-specific symposia and key milestones 

    Starting in April 2025, a series of industry-specific symposia will be organized, focusing on sectors such as batteries, textiles, and construction materials.  

    The project’s outputs, including draft standards and recommendations, are expected to be finalized and submitted by the end of 2025. This timeline reflects the urgency of establishing a global framework that can support both regulatory compliance and market-driven sustainability goals. 

    A unified vision for global interoperability 

    This initiative is not about creating duplicative or conflicting frameworks but rather fostering exploration, alignment, and harmonization. By building on existing efforts and addressing gaps, the DPP aims to become a cornerstone of global interoperability, supporting seamless data exchange and collaboration across borders and industries. 

    We are encouraged by the strong participation and commitment demonstrated throughout the process and look forward to continued collaboration. Your input remains critical to achieving a balanced and effective framework that drives adoption and delivers real-world impact. 

    For more information about the initiative, please visit: 
    🌐 https://unece.org/trade/events/kick-meeting-isopwi-25534-1 

    🌐 https://unece.org/trade/events/adhoc-meeting-isopwi-25534-1 
     

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI: Metal Sky Star Acquisition Corporation (Nasdaq: MSSA) Announces Extension and Continued Progress

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York, NY, April 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Metal Sky Star Acquisition Corporation (Nasdaq: MSSA), originally listed on NASDAQ as a Special Purpose Acquisition Company (SPAC), is dedicated to facilitating the public listing of its target company through a strategic business combination.

    The transaction, which spans the telecom industry and involves extensive regulatory requirements and government approvals, has encountered complexities typical of de-SPAC processes. Recognizing these challenges, the company is diligently working to secure all necessary clearances.

    In support of these efforts, shareholders have approved an additional nine-month extension to complete the transaction. This extended timeline will allow Metal Sky Star to finalize the necessary regulatory approvals and strategic steps.

    Furthermore, discussions with NASDAQ have confirmed that while trading in Metal Sky Star’s shares will transition to the OTC market, once the final government approval is obtained and the transaction is completed, the surviving entity is expected to re-list on NASDAQ provided it satisfies the relevant initial listing standards.

    Metal Sky Star remains committed to transparency and will continue to provide updates as it moves toward completing this transformative transaction.

    About Metal Sky Star Acquisition Corporation

    Metal Sky Star Acquisition Corporation is a blank check company formed under the laws of the Cayman Islands for the purpose of effecting a merger, share exchange, asset acquisition, stock purchase, reorganization or similar business combination with one or more businesses.

    Forward Looking Statements

    This press release contains statements that constitute “forward-looking statements”. Forward-looking statements are subject to numerous conditions, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, including those set forth in the Risk Factors section of the Company’s registration statement and final prospectus for the offering filed with the SEC. Copies are available on the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov. The Company undertakes no obligation to update these statements for revisions or changes after the date of this release, except as required by law.

    Company Contacts:

    Wenxi He
    Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
    221 River Street, 9th Floor, Hoboken, New Jersey 07030
    201-721-8789
    Email: olivia@metalskystar.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: AGF Management Limited Reports First Quarter 2025 Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, April 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    • Reported quarterly adjusted diluted earnings per share of $0.48
    • Total assets under management and fee-earning assets of $53.8 billion
    • Increased quarterly dividend per share to 12.5 cents

    AGF Management Limited (AGF or the Company) (TSX: AGF.B) today announced financial results for the first quarter ended February 28, 2025.

    AGF reported total assets under management and fee-earning assets1 of $53.8 billion compared to $53.6 billion as at November 30, 2024 and $45.0 billion as at February 29, 2024.

    “In a challenging market environment shaped by political change, we have excelled and continued to deliver on our strategy,” said Kevin McCreadie, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Investment Officer, AGF. “Our long-term approach aims to deliver on our strategic imperatives; while also ensuring we can thrive through changing market cycles and uncertainty.”

    AGF’s mutual fund gross sales were $1,568 million for the quarter compared to $993 million in the previous quarter and $914 million in the prior year quarter. Mutual fund net sales were $258 million compared to $5 million in the previous quarter and net redemptions of $125 million in the prior year quarter.

    “Recent market volatility has reinforced the importance of providing investors with access to diverse capabilities and offerings,” said Judy Goldring, President and Head of Global Distribution, AGF. “With alternatives playing an increasingly important role in portfolios, this quarter we have focused on further building out our strategies with the launch of products across our lines of business.”

    1 Fee-earning assets represents assets in which AGF has carried interest ownership and earns recurring fees but does not have ownership interest in the managers.

    Key Business Highlights:

    • In January, AGF Capital Partners, AGF Management Limited’s multi-boutique alternatives business announced the launch of the AGF NHC Tactical Alpha Fund, an absolute return-oriented strategy that aims to generate attractive risk-adjusted returns across market regimes while maintaining low beta to traditional asset classes.
    • In February, AGF Investments Inc. announced the launch of AGF Enhanced U.S. Income Plus Fund, an alternative mutual fund that seeks to provide long-term capital appreciation and generate a high level of consistent income by investing in U.S. equity securities and employing dynamic options strategies such as put writing and covered call writing.
    • AGF Investments Inc. was recognized with FundGrade A+® Awards for AGF American Growth Fund, AGF Fixed Income Plus Fund and AGF Global Select Fund.
    • Taking another important step forward in our ongoing commitment to gender equity, AGF Management Limited announced a new partnership with VersaFi, (formerly Women in Capital Markets). This renowned organization is focused on addressing barriers to women’s advancement, sharing best practices and strategies for progress, and developing actionable policies and industry-leading programs to advance gender diversity in the workplace. 

    Financial Highlights:

    • Adjusted EBITDA2 for the three months ended February 28, 2025 was $47.9 million, compared to $39.6 million for the three months ended November 30, 2024 and $49.5 million for the comparative prior year period.
    • Net management, advisory and administration fees2 for the three months ended February 28, 2025 was $85.2 million, compared to $83.6 million for the three months ended November 30, 2024 and $74.9 million for the comparative prior year period.
    • Adjusted revenue from AGF Capital Partners for the three months ended February 28, 2025 was $23.6 million, compared to $18.2 million for the three months ended November 30, 2024 and $24.4 million for the comparative prior year period. The decrease year over year was driven by change in fair value adjustments, offset by the consolidation of KCPL financial results. Revenue from AGF Capital Partners can be variable quarter to quarter and can be impacted by fair value adjustments, timing of monetizations and cash distributions as well as performance fees and carried interest.
    • Adjusted selling, general and administrative costs2 for the three months ended February 28, 2025 was $63.6 million, compared to $66.2 million for the three months ended November 30, 2024 and $53.5 million for the comparative prior year period. The increase in adjusted SG&A from prior year reflects the consolidation of KCPL as well as increases driven by higher performance-based compensation and the market environment.
    • Adjusted net income attributable to equity owners2 for the three months ended February 28, 2025 was $32.1 million ($0.48 adjusted diluted EPS), compared to $29.8 million ($0.45 adjusted diluted EPS) and $33.7 million ($0.51 adjusted diluted EPS) for the comparative prior year period.
                       
        Three months ended
          February 28,       November 30,       February 29,  
      (in millions of Canadian dollars, except per share data)   2025       2024       2024  
                       
      Revenues                
      Management, advisory and administration fees $ 122.8     $ 120.2     $ 108.6  
      Trailing commissions and investment advisory fees   (37.6 )     (36.6 )     (33.7 )
      Net management, advisory and administration fees2 $ 85.2     $ 83.6     $ 74.9  
      Deferred sales charges   1.2       1.3       2.0  
      Adjusted revenue from AGF Capital Partners2   23.6       18.2       24.4  
      Other revenue2   1.5       2.7       1.7  
      Total adjusted net revenue2   111.5       105.8       103.0  
                       
      Selling, general and administrative   67.8       70.2       57.9  
      Adjusted selling, general and administrative2   63.6       66.2       53.5  
                       
      EBITDA2   44.2       36.9       45.1  
      Adjusted EBITDA2   47.9       39.6       49.5  
                       
      Net income – equity owners of the Company   30.9       28.7       30.5  
      Adjusted net income – equity owners of the Company2   32.1       29.8       33.7  
                       
      Diluted earnings per share   0.46       0.43       0.46  
                       
      Adjusted diluted earnings per share2   0.48       0.45       0.51  
                       
      Free cash flow2   31.6       21.4       21.2  
                       
      Dividends per share   0.115       0.115       0.110  
                       
      (end of period) Three months ended
          February 28,     November 30,     February 29,  
      (in millions of Canadian dollars)   2025     2024     2024  
                       
      Mutual fund assets under management (AUM)3 $ 31,167   $ 30,662   $ 26,186  
      ETFs and SMA AUM   2,913     2,537     1,676  
      Segregated accounts and sub-advisory AUM   6,529     6,977     7,162  
      Total AGF Investments AUM   40,609     40,176     35,024  
      AGF Private Wealth AUM   8,623     8,567     7,836  
      AGF Capital Partners AUM   2,468     2,752     48  
      Total AUM $ 51,700   $ 51,495   $ 42,908  
      AGF Capital Partners fee-earning assets4   2,142     2,111     2,104  
      Total AUM and fee-earning assets4 $ 53,842   $ 53,606   $ 45,012  
                       
      Net mutual fund sales (redemptions)3   258     5     (125 )
      Average daily mutual fund AUM3   30,853     29,173     25,197  

    2 Net management, advisory and administration fees, adjusted revenue from AGF Capital Partners, total net revenue, adjusted selling, general and administrative, EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income, adjusted diluted earnings per share and free cash flow are not standardized measures prescribed by IFRS. The Company utilizes non-IFRS measures to assess our overall performance and facilitate a comparison of quarterly and full-year results from period to period. They allow us to assess our investment management business without the impact of non-operational items. These non-IFRS measures may not be comparable with similar measures presented by other companies. These non-IFRS measures and reconciliations to IFRS, where necessary, are included in the Management’s Discussion and Analysis available at www.agf.com.
    3 Mutual fund AUM includes retail AUM and institutional client AUM invested in customized series offered within mutual funds.
    4 Fee-earning assets represents assets in which AGF has carried interest ownership and earns recurring fees but does not have ownership interest in the managers.

    For further information and detailed financial statements for the first quarter ended February 28, 2025, including Management’s Discussion and Analysis, which contains discussions of non-IFRS measures, please refer to AGF’s website at www.agf.com under ‘About AGF’ and ‘Investor Relations’ and at www.sedarplus.com.

    Conference Call

    AGF will host a conference call to review its earnings results today at 11 a.m. ET.

    The live audio webcast with supporting materials will be available in the Investor Relations section of AGF’s website at www.agf.com or at https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/4ch7jtxw. Alternatively, the call can be accessed over the phone by registering here or in the Investor Relations section of AGF’s website at www.agf.com, to receive the dial-in numbers and unique PIN.

    A complete archive of this discussion along with supporting materials will be available at the same webcast address within 24 hours of the end of the conference call.

    About AGF Management Limited

    Founded in 1957, AGF Management Limited (AGF) is an independent and globally diverse asset management firm. Our companies deliver excellence in investing in the public and private markets through three business lines: AGF Investments, AGF Capital Partners and AGF Private Wealth.

    AGF brings a disciplined approach, focused on incorporating sound, responsible and sustainable corporate practices. The firm’s collective investment expertise, driven by its fundamental, quantitative and private investing capabilities, extends globally to a wide range of clients, from financial advisors and their clients to high-net worth and institutional investors including pension plans, corporate plans, sovereign wealth funds, endowments and foundations.

    Headquartered in Toronto, Canada, AGF has investment operations and client servicing teams on the ground in North America and Europe. With over $52 billion in total assets under management and fee-earning assets, AGF serves more than 815,000 investors. AGF trades on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol AGF.B.

    About AGF Investments

    AGF Investments is a group of wholly owned subsidiaries of AGF Management Limited, a Canadian reporting issuer. The subsidiaries included in AGF Investments are AGF Investments Inc. (AGFI), AGF Investments America Inc. (AGFA), AGF Investments LLC (AGFUS) and AGF International Advisors Company Limited (AGFIA). The term AGF Investments may refer to one or more of these subsidiaries or to all of them jointly. This term is used for convenience and does not precisely describe any of the separate companies, each of which manages its own affairs. AGF Investments entities only provide investment advisory services or offers investment funds in the jurisdiction where such firm and/or product is registered or authorized to provide such services.

    About AGF Capital Partners

    AGF Capital Partners is AGF’s multi-boutique alternatives business with diverse capabilities across both private assets and alternative strategies. Clients benefit from the specialized investment expertise of Affiliate Managers1 combined with the organizational support and breadth of resources of AGF Management Limited (AGF). With over 18 years average experience, AGF Capital Partners Affiliate Managers including, Kensington Capital Partners Limited, New Holland Capital, LLC and AGF SAF Private Credit, manage approximately C$13.8 billion* in alternative AUM and fee earning assets on behalf of institutional and retail clients. Affiliate Manager AUM may not be consolidated into AGF Management Limited’s reported AUM.

    *US AUM converted FX rate at February 28, 2025 (1.44)

    The term ‘Affiliate Manager’ refers to any partner regardless of relationship structures or revenue sharing agreements. The form of AGF’s structured partnership interests in Affiliate Managers differs from Affiliate Manager to Affiliate Manager. The structure of the relationship with a particular Affiliate Manager, or the revenue that AGF agrees to share in, may change. Affiliate Managers only provide investment advisory services or offer products in the jurisdiction where such firm, individuals and/or product is registered or authorized to provide such services.

    Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees and expenses all may be associated with investment fund investments. Please read the prospectus before investing. Investment funds are not guaranteed, their values change frequently, and past performance may not be repeated.

    AGF Management Limited shareholders, analysts and media, please contact:

    Nick Smerek
    VP, Financial Planning & Analysis
    416-865-4337, InvestorRelations@agf.com

    Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release includes forward-looking statements about the Company, including its business operations, strategy and expected financial performance and condition. Forward-looking statements include statements that are predictive in nature, depend upon or refer to future events or conditions, or include words such as ‘expects,’ ‘estimates,’ ‘anticipates,’ ‘intends,’ ‘plans,’ ‘believes’ or negative versions thereof and similar expressions, or future or conditional verbs such as ‘may,’ ‘will,’ ‘should,’ ‘would’ and ‘could.’ In addition, any statement that may be made concerning future financial performance (including income, revenues, earnings or growth rates), ongoing business strategies or prospects, fund performance, and possible future action on our part, is also a forward-looking statement. Forward-looking statements are based on certain factors and assumptions, including expected growth, results of operations, business prospects, business performance and opportunities. While we consider these factors and assumptions to be reasonable based on information currently available, they may prove to be incorrect. Forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and projections about future events and are inherently subject to, among other things, risks, uncertainties and assumptions about our operations, economic factors and the financial services industry generally. They are not guarantees of future performance, and actual events and results could differ materially from those expressed or implied by forward-looking statements made by us due to, but not limited to, important risk factors such as level of assets under our management, volume of sales and redemptions of our investment products, performance of our investment funds and of our investment managers and advisors, client-driven asset allocation decisions, pipeline, competitive fee levels for investment management products and administration, and competitive dealer compensation levels and cost efficiency in our investment management operations, as well as general economic, political and market factors in North America and internationally, interest and foreign exchange rates, global equity and capital markets, business competition, taxation, changes in government regulations, unexpected judicial or regulatory proceedings, technological changes, cybersecurity, the possible effects of war or terrorist activities, outbreaks of disease or illness that affect local, national or international economies, natural disasters and disruptions to public infrastructure, such as transportation, communications, power or water supply or other catastrophic events, and our ability to complete strategic transactions and integrate acquisitions, and attract and retain key personnel. We caution that the foregoing list is not exhaustive. The reader is cautioned to consider these and other factors carefully and not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Other than specifically required by applicable laws, we are under no obligation (and expressly disclaim any such obligation) to update or alter the forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. For a more complete discussion of the risk factors that may impact actual results, please refer to the ‘Risk Factors and Management of Risk’ section of the 2024 Annual MD&A.

    FundGrade A+® Awards:

    FundGrade A+® is used with permission from Fundata Canada Inc., all rights reserved. The annual FundGrade A+® Awards are presented by Fundata Canada Inc. to recognize the “best of the best” among Canadian investment funds. The FundGrade A+® calculation is supplemental to the monthly FundGrade ratings and is calculated at the end of each calendar year. The FundGrade rating system evaluates funds based on their risk-adjusted performance, measured by Sharpe Ratio, Sortino Ratio, and Information Ratio. The score for each ratio is calculated individually, covering all time periods from 2 to 10 years. The scores are then weighted equally in calculating a monthly FundGrade. The top 10% of funds earn an A Grade; the next 20% of funds earn a B Grade; the next 40% of funds earn a C Grade; the next 20% of funds receive a D Grade; and the lowest 10% of funds receive an E Grade. To be eligible, a fund must have received a FundGrade rating every month in the previous year. The FundGrade A+® uses a GPA-style calculation, where each monthly FundGrade from “A” to “E” receives a score from 4 to 0, respectively. A fund’s average score for the year determines its GPA. Any fund with a GPA of 3.5 or greater is awarded a FundGrade A+® Award. For more information, see www.FundGradeAwards.com. Although Fundata makes every effort to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the data contained herein, the accuracy is not guaranteed by Fundata.

    AGF American Growth Fund won in the U.S. Equity CIFSC Category, out of 237 funds. The FundGrade A+ start date was 12/31/2014 and the FundGrade A+ end date was 12/31/2024.

    AGF Global Select Fund won in the Global Equity CIFSC Category, out of 306 funds. The FundGrade A+ start date was 12/31/2014 and the FundGrade A+ end date was 12/31/2024.

    AGF Fixed Income Plus Fund won in the Canadian Fixed Income CIFSC Category, out of 137 funds. The FundGrade A+ start date was 12/31/2014 and the FundGrade A+ end date was 12/31/2024.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Plaid Cymru urges UK Government to “step up” and provide direct support to protect Welsh car sector jobs

    Source: Party of Wales

    Liz Saville Roberts slams past governments for leaving Welsh livelihoods exposed to global market forces

    Plaid Cymru’s Westminster leader, Liz Saville Roberts MP, highlighted how Trump’s 25% tariffs on machinery and transport equipment will threaten Wales’ car sector.

    The automative sector employs 30,000 people in Wales.

    Just last week, Ms Saville Roberts urged the UK Government to use economic common sense and accelerate scrapping trade barriers with Europe in the face of Trump’s tariffs to protect the Welsh economy.

    Liz Saville Roberts MP also criticised previous Labour and Conservative Governments for failing to protect Welsh livelihoods in the past, who were “swept away” by global market forces.

    The Secretary of State for Transport, Heidi Alexander MP claimed that the Government would give British car-makers “certainty and support” in the face of global economic headwinds. However, the Welsh Automative Forum have called for direct support for the car sector, claiming that the UK Government’s commitments aren’t enough.

    Speaking in the House of Commons, Liz Saville Roberts MP said:

    “Previous Labour and Conservative Governments did little when Welsh livelihoods were swept away by global market forces in places like the Ford plant in Bridgend and the steel works in Port Talbot.

    “Wales’s car sector is now facing 25% tariffs, thanks to President Trump, threatening an industry which employs 30,000 people.

    “The Welsh Automotive Forum have said the Government’s commitments are not enough. They’re calling for direct support.

    “Recycled fines are hardly direct support. Is her Government prepared to step up and provide it?”

     

    The Secretary of State for Transport, Heidi Alexander responded:

    “We have a £2 billion automotive transformation fund. We’re investing hundreds of millions of pounds in other forms of support as well.

    “I work closely with the Welsh Government on these issues, and we won’t leave any stone unturned in our attempts to protect the car manufacturing industry and ensure that those high skilled jobs are there in communities in Wales and across the rest of country.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Vacancy for a principal inspector of marine accidents

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Vacancy for a principal inspector of marine accidents

    We are seeking a principal inspector of marine accidents. This Southampton-based role is a great opportunity for an experienced marine industry professional.

    Your key responsibilities will include:

    • Acting as duty coordinator and the branch’s initial point of contact for out of hours accident notifications within a 4-week cycle; leading and managing a team of specialist accident investigators.

    • Deploying to accident sites, at short notice during duty weeks, to manage the more demanding investigations; this could include travel worldwide.

    • Directing the progress, conduct, and quality assurance of investigations, the development of recommendations, and overseeing production of the investigation report.

    • Dealing with individuals and organisations involved in marine accidents in what can often be stressful situations.

    • Representing the branch at industry fora.

    • Contributing to MAIB’s wider management strategies.

    You must be prepared to travel throughout the UK (for which you will need a full UK driving licence) as well as overseas.

    For further information about this position and how to apply see: Civil Service Jobs, Principal Inspector of Marine Accidents, Ref: 397086

    Closing date: 4 May 2025

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DHHL AWARDS NEARLY 100 TURNKEY HOMES IN WAIKAPŪ, MAUI

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    DHHL AWARDS NEARLY 100 TURNKEY HOMES IN WAIKAPŪ, MAUI

    Posted on Apr 7, 2025 in Featured, Latest Department News, Newsroom

     

    STATE OF HAWAIʻI

    KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI 

    DEPARTMENT OF HAWAIIAN HOME LANDS

    KA ʻOIHANA ʻĀINA HOʻOPULAPULA HAWAIʻI

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.
    GOVERNOR

    KE KIAʻĀINA 

    KALI WATSON

    DIRECTOR

    KA LUNA HOʻOKELE 

    KATIE L. LAMBERT

    DEPUTY DIRECTOR

    KA HOPE LUNA HOʻOKELE

    DHHL AWARDS NEARLY 100 TURNKEY HOMES IN WAIKAPŪ, MAUI

    Development of Phase II to Start in May 2025; Families to Move In Early 2026

     

    Governor Josh Green, M.D., state and county leaders greet and congratulate Puʻuhona Phase II awardees.

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    April 7, 2025

    KAHULUI, MAUI – Within the Pilina Building at the University of Hawaiʻi Maui College, tables decked with vibrant purple orchid lei lay at the ready, while the melodic sounds of leo kiʻekiʻe and the distinct chatter of excitement signaled the start of a transformational day for which many have waited decades.

    On Saturday, April 5, 2025, nearly 300 beneficiaries and their ʻohana eagerly awaited the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands’ (DHHL) Puʻuhona Phase II lot selection where 91 turnkey homes were awarded for Maui’s newest homestead community in Waikapū.

    “The wait for a home should never be measured in decades and these 91 families have endured against all odds,” said Governor Josh Green, M.D. “We have a responsibility to them, and to every Native Hawaiian on the waitlist to move faster, build smarter and deliver on the promise of the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act.”

    For almost four hours, applicants’ names were announced in the order they applied; starting with those from the late 1980s. As awardees took their places in line to select their lots, some considered the number of bedrooms they’d need for their growing families; others considered the lots’ locations.

    Regardless of their selection, everyone was grateful for a piece of land to call home.

    “This project is not just about building homes, it’s about rebuilding ancestral connections, creating opportunities, and empowering generations to thrive on the ʻāina,” said DHHL Director Kali Watson. “Prince Kūhiō’s vision was clear – to empower Native Hawaiians through land. Through the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act, he worked to return the lands to Native Hawaiians, fostering a sense of pride, identity, and belonging. We walk that same path today, guided by his vision.”

    The awarding of homes marks progress in the development of the department’s first Act 279 project. Act 279 allocated a historic $600 million in general funds to the DHHL in 2022 to specifically tackle its long-standing waitlist.

    In June of 2024, 52 homes were offered as part of Puʻuhona Phase I making it the first such award on the Valley Isle in 17 years. Phase I families are expected to move into their homes this summer.

    Construction on Phase II is set to begin in May of this year. The first homes are scheduled for completion in February 2026.

    Phase II offered 91 homes of two- to five bedrooms. Homes range in price from $411,422 to $699,000.

    Puʻuhona: Maui’s Newest Homestead Community

    Puʻuhona is the name of the first of four puʻu, or hills, that travel up to Hanaʻula, Waikapū’s highest peak. Named in likely reference to the native tree, hona was highly valued for the fibers found in its inner bark, which were used to craft rope and cordage for fishnets. The creation and intertwining of these materials represent the unity and growth of a community as individual strands come together to form a stronger bond.

    “Every day we strive to build balanced, resilient communities, and Puʻuhona is no exception,” said Dowling Company president and developer, Everett Dowling. “The needs of our Native Hawaiian community are at the forefront in the development of each homestead community, and we will continue to build until everyone on the waitlist has a house of their own.”

    The department acquired the roughly 47-acre parcel through a land transfer with the Dowling Company, Inc. in exchange for affordable housing credits from the county of Maui.

    Puʻuhona will comprise 137 turnkey homes and 24 improved vacant lots: each lot averaging 7,500 square feet in size. Groundwork on the project began in May 2023.

    More to Come on Maui

    The DHHL has six homestead projects in development on the island of Maui.

    This includes:

    • Honokōwai: 50 lots
    • Leialiʻi 1B: 181 lots
    • Wailuku single-family: 207 lots
    • Waiehu mauka: 404 lots
    • Kamalani: 400 lots
    • Kēōkea-Waiohuli: 404 lots

    “To our ‘ohana: please don’t lose hope. The department has more than 1,600 units coming to the island of Maui and we look forward to the opportunity to award leases later this year,” Watson added. “With the backing of Governor Green, our department will explore innovative ways to get our people into the homes they rightfully deserve.”

    To learn more about DHHL’s upcoming Maui projects, click here.

    Click here to download visuals, soundbites.

    B-ROLL (3:53)

    SOUNDBITES

    Tina Leikaha, Puʻuhona awardee, Kahului resident

    (:08 seconds)

    “I’m so excited, I was nervous, being patient, but when they called my name, I was like, oh my gosh, I just said chee hoo.” 

    (:12 seconds)

    “At least my kids can come home now, we have them in the mainland, some of them live in Vegas, Washington, Oregon, so now they can come home, whenever they like, we have a home for them.” 

    Sheldean Dudoit, Puʻuhona awardee, Makawao resident

    (:19 seconds)

    “I feel relieved now being able to call a place home, not only for me but for my kids, knowing that I’ve been through a lot of obstacles in my life but now I see the end and there’s the bright light at the end of the tunnel.”

    (:18 seconds)

    “I really thought like aww man, I was giving up hope, and my sister was like, no, you’re going to get something, you’re going to get something, just hang in there, so I just had to keep the faith, and it all paid off.”

    # # #

     

    About the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands:

    The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands carries out Prince Jonah Kūhiō  Kalanianaʻole’s vision of rehabilitating native Hawaiians by returning them to the land. Established by U.S. Congress in 1921 with the passage of the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act, the Hawaiian homesteading program run by DHHL includes management of more than 200,000 acres of land statewide with the specific purpose of developing and delivering homesteading.

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: California sues Trump administration after funding for critical library services threatened

    Source: US State of California 2

    Apr 7, 2025

    What you need to know: As National Library Week begins, California is suing the Trump administration after millions of dollars in grants to the state’s libraries were terminated abruptly when the federal administration illegally dismantled a federal agency.

    Sacramento, California – As National Library Week begins, Governor Gavin Newsom and Attorney General Rob Bonta announced a lawsuit against the Trump administration after millions of dollars in grants to state libraries were terminated abruptly through the Trump administration’s efforts to illegally shutter the agency that administers them. This threatens federal funding to California libraries that support library staff and critical library programs, including literacy and language tutoring and summer reading and activity programs.

    In California, we know libraries hold more than books. Libraries, and librarians, stand at the crossroads of opportunity and information, offering countless programs and supports for everyone in the community, from career help to free meals for children. An attack on libraries is an attack on communities – and California is fighting back.

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    “Our libraries are hubs for learning, civic engagement, and community. They provide important services to Californians, from kids summer reading and meal programs, to programs that help families, seniors, and veterans navigate an increasingly digital world,” said Attorney General Rob Bonta. “On Friday, we sued the Trump Administration for unlawfully attempting to shutter the Institute of Museum and Library Services—a federal agency that supports libraries across the nation. This National Library Week, we recognize the essential role that libraries play in our communities and to preserve our rich cultural heritage, and vow to continue the fight to ensure that all Californians can access the public services libraries provide our communities every day.”

    Executive Order No. 14238 continues the Trump administration’s unlawful attack on several Congressionally-established agencies, including the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), which supports educational and cultural institutions and programs across the country. Through IMLS’s Grants to States Program, the California State Library received $15.7 million in federal funding to support statewide library programs and staffing – less than 40 cents per Californian. Over 21 percent of that funding has yet to be sent to California. 

    IMLS funds support numerous programs that serve all Californians – especially lower-income families, seniors, and veterans. These funds also help expand access to the Career Online High School program that enables adults to earn their high school diplomas through local libraries, and the Braille and Talking Book Library that ensures that visually impaired Californians have free access to books in accessible formats. If the Order stands, all functions and staff positions paid for with IMLS funding will be at risk. 

    Attorney General Bonta joined the lawsuit alongside the attorneys general of New York, Rhode Island, Hawaii, Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oregon, Vermont, Washington, and Wisconsin. 

    This is California’s 12th lawsuit against the Trump administration. A copy of the lawsuit is available here.

    More on California’s State Library

    With IMLS funding, the State Library works with the 1,127 libraries across the state to provide high-quality literacy and summer programs, high-speed broadband, disaster preparedness, early learning, homework help, teen services, career resources, and collections. It supports transparency, providing free and open access to government information through the Federal and State Depository Library Programs. The State Library also maintains and expands the Braille and Talking Book Library, providing audio and braille books, magazines, and descriptive videos to blind and print disabled Californians. 

    Press Releases, Recent News

    Recent news

    Apr 5, 2025

    News Family farmers share how these cuts will harm their businesses and communities What you need to know: Governor Newsom sent a letter of appeal today to the Department of Agriculture asking for a reversal of the termination of $47 million meant to support…

    Apr 5, 2025

    News California Just a Nevada-Sized Economy Away from Overtaking Germany and Japan as World’s No. 3 Economy— Bloomberg News SACRAMENTO — As President Trump threatens the U.S. economy with reckless tariffs and rising uncertainty, Governor Gavin Newsom announced new…

    Apr 4, 2025

    News “California is not Washington, D.C.” What you need to know:As President Trump’s tariffs take effect, Governor Gavin Newsom is pursuing new strategic partnerships with international trading partners while calling for California-made products to be excluded from…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Phillips 66 Files Definitive Proxy Statement and Issues Letter to Shareholders

    Source: Phillips

    Highlights Results of Transformative Strategy and Path to Future Value Creation
    Demonstrates Elliott’s Thesis is Based on Flawed Assumptions and Changes Would be Destructive to Long-Term Shareholder Value
    Urges Shareholders to Vote “FOR” ONLY Phillips 66’s Nominees on the WHITE Proxy Card

    HOUSTON–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Phillips 66 (NYSE:PSX) today announced that it has filed its definitive proxy materials with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission in connection with its upcoming Annual Meeting of Shareholders on May 21, 2025. Shareholders of record as of the close of business on April 4, 2025 are entitled to vote at the meeting.
    In addition, the Board wrote a letter to shareholders that highlights valuable information to make an informed voting decision, including:
    The consistent, compelling value Phillips 66 delivers for its shareholders;
    The bold steps Phillips 66 has taken to drive shareholder value under Mark Lashier’s leadership;
    Progress made across business areas and future actions that will drive continued outperformance;
    Phillips 66’s track record of allocating capital effectively and prioritizing consistent shareholder returns across economic and industry cycles; and
    How Elliott’s misguided proposals will disrupt Phillips 66’s momentum by pushing for irreversible change that will destroy shareholder value.
    Phillips 66 also published a video on Phillips66Delivers.com, which reiterates Phillips 66’s differentiated platform, transformative strategy, approach to capital allocation and history of engagement with Elliott Investment Management (“Elliott”).
    The full text of the Board’s letter to shareholders follows:
    Dear Fellow Shareholders,
    Thank you for your investment in Phillips 66 and your continued support.
    The Board is committed to protecting your investment and focused on sustainable long-term value creation. For twelve years, we reliably grew our dividend and consistently returned capital to shareholders, delivering more than $43 billion1 in cumulative shareholder distributions.
    Phillips 66’s Strategy Delivers Consistent and Compelling Long-Term Value
    Our ability to continue to deliver long-term value for you is on the line – and your vote at our 2025 Annual Meeting is very important to us.
    You face an important choice regarding your Phillips 66 investment:
    On one side isa Board and management team implementing a clear transformative strategy that has delivered results. The strategy is in its early stages and has significant room to deliver further value.
    On the other side isan activist hedge fund pushing an aggressive short-term agenda– including a rushed breakup of our Company based on flawed analysis – that would introduce unnecessary risk and disruption, slow our momentum and jeopardize your invested capital and long-term returns.
    We do not dismiss Elliott’s ideas – in fact, we’ve welcomed their ideas throughout our entire engagement with them. We encourage healthy debate in the board room and that spirit extends to how we incorporate shareholder feedback. We care about finding the right path to drive the highest value for your investment.
    Given our assessment of where Phillips 66 is in its strategy, current market conditions and specific costs and risks related to Elliott’s thesis, we believe pursuing their ideas puts your investment at risk.
    Elliott continues to use its activist playbook to avoid collaboration, cloud the discussion and drive a false narrative to promote their short-term agenda. Meanwhile, Phillips 66’s Board and management team are taking bold steps to drive shareholder value.
    Phillips 66 is in the Early Innings of a Deliberate Transformation
    Under CEO Mark Lashier’s leadership since July 2022, Phillips 66 has made a series of bold decisions for shareholders, including:
    Returning $13.6 billion to shareholders;1
    Nearly doubling EBITDA contributions from our Midstream segment from 2021 levels;
    Divesting a total of $3.5 billion in assets;
    Announcing plans to cease operations at our Los Angeles refinery; and
    Fulfilling our commitment to substantially reduce controllable costs.
    These are significant actions where the benefits to shareholders are just starting to be realized. Since Mark became CEO, we have delivered strong total shareholder returns, significantly outperforming a weighted average of our proxy peers2 – 67%3 vs 42%3.
    Phillips 66’s Strategy and Current Initiatives are Built for Consistent Returns While Providing Shareholders with Meaningful Upside
    Elliott wants a quick win by breaking up the Company, based on inflated and unrealistic assumptions. As we continue to execute our strategy, we are confident we will continue to deliver outperformance for our shareholders.
    The path to additional shareholder value is in the ongoing efforts across our business, including:
    Phillips 66 has a track record of allocating capital efficiently and generating high returns on invested capital. Since 2015, we have delivered Return on Capital Employed (“ROCE”)4 of 11%, outperforming the weighted average of our proxy peers. We achieved this by being highly selective when deciding where to deploy our capital within the business. This proven and disciplined approach to capital allocation will help deliver value for our shareholders.
    Since our formation in 2012, we have returned more than $43 billion to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases1. We have grown our dividend at a 15% Compound Annual Growth Rate (“CAGR”). The dividend we pay to our shareholders has grown every single year since we have been a publicly traded company.
    So, What is at Risk with Elliott’s Proposals?
    Elliott seeks rapid, irreversible change in pursuit of an unrealistic thesis – and risks halting the momentum on our long-term value-creating strategic plan.
    Elliott’s thesis jeopardizes shareholders’ realization of value from our long-term strategy.
    Their thesis is inherently based on short-term market fluctuations, aspirational valuations and unrealistic assumptions.
    Elliott’s analysis of a potential spin of the midstream business understates one-time costsand ongoing dis-synergies.
    Their analysis of a potential sale of the midstream business unrealistically asserts that cash buyers exist at a $50 billion price tag and would pay for 100% of synergies, both of which are highly unlikely. In addition, tax leakage costs could be as high as $10 billion.
    Elliott’s analysis notably excludes external factors, such as the timing risk of valuations in commodity businesses, which can significantly impact transactions in our industry.
    The Board is committed to thoroughly evaluating Phillips 66’s portfolio to maximize long-term shareholder value. We debate these topics rigorously and always carefully review all options, but we will not favor short-term decision making under the pressure of one shareholder at the expense of all others.
    To Sum it All Up: Long-Term Value Creation is Phillips 66’s North Star
    Phillips 66 is executing a disciplined strategy that continues to deliver tangible results and has significant room to drive further shareholder value. Our strong track record of financial performance, operational excellence and shareholder returns underscores our ability to successfully navigate industry cycles. We are well positioned to continue building on these successes to provide you with consistent and compelling long-term returns.
    We urge you to support Phillips 66 at the 2025 Annual Meeting. Your investment is best served by having a Board focused on creating reliable value, both now and in the future.
    We unanimously recommend you vote “FOR” ONLY Phillips 66’s nominees on the WHITE proxy card.
    Thank you for your continued support.
    Sincerely,
    The Phillips 66 Board of Directors

    _________________________________________

    1

    Shareholder distribution through dividends paid on common stock and repurchases of common stock.

    2

    Calculated as the weighted average of Refining (CVI, DINO, DK, MPC, PBF, VLO), Midstream (OKE, TRGP, WMB), and Chemicals (DOW, LYB, WLK) Performance Proxy Peers’ TSR based on the weighting of consensus NTM EBITDA estimates for PSX’s segments.

    3

    Total Shareholder Return (“TSR”) from June 30, 2022 to March 31, 2025

    4

    Non-GAAP financial measure. Reconciliations of these non-GAAP financial measures to the most comparable GAAP financial measure can be found here.

    5

    Excludes adjusted turnaround expenses. Non-GAAP financial measure. Reconciliations of these non-GAAP financial measures to the most comparable GAAP financial measure can be found here.

    About Phillips 66
    Phillips 66 (NYSE: PSX) is a leading integrated downstream energy provider that manufactures, transports and markets products that drive the global economy. The company’s portfolio includes Midstream, Chemicals, Refining, Marketing and Specialties, and Renewable Fuels businesses. Headquartered in Houston, Phillips 66 has employees around the globe who are committed to safely and reliably providing energy and improving lives while pursuing a lower-carbon future. For more information, visit phillips66.com or follow @Phillips66Co on LinkedIn.
    Forward-Looking Statements
    This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws relating to Phillips 66’s operations, strategy and performance. Words such as “anticipated,” “committed,” “estimated,” “expected,” “planned,” “scheduled,” “targeted,” “believe,” “continue,” “intend,” “will,” “would,” “objective,” “goal,” “project,” “efforts,” “strategies” and similar expressions that convey the prospective nature of events or outcomes generally indicate forward-looking statements. However, the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Forward-looking statements included in this news release are based on management’s expectations, estimates and projections as of the date they are made. These statements are not guarantees of future events or performance, and you should not unduly rely on them as they involve certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Therefore, actual outcomes and results may differ materially from what is expressed or forecast in such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements include: changes in governmental policies or laws that relate to our operations, including regulations that seek to limit or restrict refining, marketing and midstream operations or regulate profits, pricing, or taxation of our products or feedstocks, or other regulations that restrict feedstock imports or product exports; our ability to timely obtain or maintain permits necessary for projects; fluctuations in NGL, crude oil, refined petroleum, renewable fuels and natural gas prices, and refining, marketing and petrochemical margins; the effects of any widespread public health crisis and its negative impact on commercial activity and demand for refined petroleum or renewable fuels products; changes to worldwide government policies relating to renewable fuels and greenhouse gas emissions that adversely affect programs including the renewable fuel standards program, low carbon fuel standards and tax credits for renewable fuels; potential liability from pending or future litigation; liability for remedial actions, including removal and reclamation obligations under existing or future environmental regulations; unexpected changes in costs for constructing, modifying or operating our facilities; our ability to successfully complete, or any material delay in the completion of, any asset disposition, acquisition, shutdown or conversion that we have announced or may pursue, including receipt of any necessary regulatory approvals or permits related thereto; unexpected difficulties in manufacturing, refining or transporting our products; the level and success of drilling and production volumes around our midstream assets; risks and uncertainties with respect to the actions of actual or potential competitive suppliers and transporters of refined petroleum products, renewable fuels or specialty products; lack of, or disruptions in, adequate and reliable transportation for our products; failure to complete construction of capital projects on time or within budget; our ability to comply with governmental regulations or make capital expenditures to maintain compliance with laws; limited access to capital or significantly higher cost of capital related to illiquidity or uncertainty in the domestic or international financial markets, which may also impact our ability to repurchase shares and declare and pay dividends; potential disruption of our operations due to accidents, weather events, including as a result of climate change, acts of terrorism or cyberattacks; general domestic and international economic and political developments, including armed hostilities (such as the Russia-Ukraine war), expropriation of assets, and other diplomatic developments; international monetary conditions and exchange controls; changes in estimates or projections used to assess fair value of intangible assets, goodwill and property and equipment and/or strategic decisions with respect to our asset portfolio that cause impairment charges; investments required, or reduced demand for products, as a result of environmental rules and regulations; changes in tax, environmental and other laws and regulations (including alternative energy mandates); political and societal concerns about climate change that could result in changes to our business or increase expenditures, including litigation-related expenses; the operation, financing and distribution decisions of equity affiliates we do not control; and other economic, business, competitive and/or regulatory factors affecting Phillips 66’s businesses generally as set forth in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Phillips 66 is under no obligation (and expressly disclaims any such obligation) to update or alter its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
    Additional Information
    On April 8, 2025, Phillips 66 filed a definitive proxy statement on Schedule 14A (the “Proxy Statement”) and accompanying WHITE proxy card with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) in connection with its 2025 Annual Meeting of Shareholders (the “2025 Annual Meeting”) and its solicitation of proxies for Phillips 66’s director nominees and for other matters to be voted on. This communication is not a substitute for the Proxy Statement or any other document that Phillips 66 has filed or may file with the SEC in connection with any solicitation by Phillips 66. PHILLIPS 66 SHAREHOLDERS ARE STRONGLY ENCOURAGED TO READ THE PROXY STATEMENT (AND ANY AMENDMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTS THERETO) AND ACCOMPANYING WHITE PROXY CARD AND ANY OTHER RELEVANT SOLICITATION MATERIALS FILED WITH THE SEC AS THEY CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION. Shareholders may obtain copies of the Proxy Statement, any amendments or supplements to the Proxy Statement and other documents (including the WHITE proxy card) filed by Phillips 66 with the SEC without charge from the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Copies of the documents filed by Phillips 66 with the SEC also may be obtained free of charge at Phillips 66’s investor relations website at https://investor.phillips66.com or upon written request sent to Phillips 66, 2331 CityWest Boulevard, Houston, TX 77042, Attention: Investor Relations.
    Certain Information Regarding Participants
    Phillips 66, its directors, its director nominees and certain of its executive officers and employees may be deemed to be participants in connection with the solicitation of proxies from Phillips 66 shareholders in connection with the matters to be considered at the 2025 Annual Meeting. Information regarding the names of such persons and their respective interests in Phillips 66, by securities holdings or otherwise, is available in the Proxy Statement, which was filed with the SEC on April 8, 2025, including in the sections captioned “Beneficial Ownership of Phillips 66 Securities” and “Appendix C: Supplemental Information Regarding Participants in the Solicitation.” To the extent that Phillips 66’s directors and executive officers who may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation have acquired or disposed of securities holdings since the applicable “as of” date disclosed in the Proxy Statement, such transactions have been or will be reflected on Statements of Changes in Ownership of Securities on Form 4 or Initial Statements of Beneficial Ownership of Securities on Form 3 filed with the SEC. These documents are or will be available free of charge at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.
    Use of Non-GAAP Financial Information
    Non-GAAP Measures — This letter includes non-GAAP financial measures, including, “adjusted EBITDA,” “refining adjusted controllable costs,” and “return on capital employed.” These are non-GAAP financial measures that are included to help facilitate comparisons of operating performance across periods and to help facilitate comparisons with other companies in our industry. Where applicable, these measures exclude items that do not reflect the core operating results of our businesses in the current period or other adjustments to reflect how management analyzes results. Click here to find reconciliations to, or further discussion of, the most comparable GAAP financial measures.
    This letter also includes forward-looking non-GAAP financial measure estimates such as, but not limited to “adjusted EBITDA,” “controllable costs” and “refining adjusted controllable costs,” which, as used in certain places herein, are forward looking non-GAAP financial measures. These forward-looking estimates or targets depend on future levels of revenues and/or expenses, including amounts that could be attributable to non-controlling interests or related joint ventures, which are not reasonably estimable at this time. Accordingly, reconciliations of these forward-looking non-GAAP financial measures to the nearest GAAP financial measure cannot be provided without unreasonable effort. Below are definitions of these non-GAAP measures and identification of the most directly comparable GAAP measure.
    EBITDA is defined as estimated net income plus estimated net interest expense, income taxes, and depreciation and amortization. Adjusted EBITDA is defined as estimated EBITDA plus the proportional share of selected equity affiliates’ estimated net interest expense, income taxes, and depreciation and amortization less the portion of estimated adjusted EBITDA attributable to noncontrolling interests. Net income is the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure for the consolidated company and income before income taxes is the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure for operating segments. Refining adjusted controllable cost is the sum of operating and SG&A expenses for our Refining segment, plus our proportional share of operating and SG&A expenses of two refining equity affiliates that are reflected in equity earnings of affiliates. The per barrel amounts are based on total processed inputs, including our proportional share of processed inputs of an equity affiliate, for the respective period.
    References in this letter to shareholder distributions and returns to shareholders refer to the sum of dividends paid to Phillips 66 stockholders and proceeds used by Phillips 66 to repurchase shares of its common stock. References to run-rate cost savings or run-rate business transformation savings, include cost savings and references to run-rate synergies include cost savings and other benefits that will be captured in the sales and other operating revenues impacting gross margin; purchased crude oil and products costs impacting gross margin; operating expenses; selling, general and administrative expenses; and equity in earnings of affiliates lines on our consolidated statement of income when realized. References to run-rate sustaining capital savings include savings that will be captured in the capital expenditures and investments on our consolidated statement of cash flows when realized. References to run-rate savings represent the sum of run-rate cost savings and run-rate sustaining capital savings. References in this letter to “synergies” are supported by management’s estimates and assumptions. These estimates are derived from the Company’s internal projections and other relevant data. However, because these synergies are not calculated in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), they cannot be directly reconciled to GAAP measures. The Company believes that these non-GAAP measures provide valuable insight into optimization benefits, but cautions that such synergies may not be realized in full or at all.
    Basis of Presentation – Effective April 1, 2024, we changed the internal financial information reviewed by our chief executive officer to evaluate performance and allocate resources to our operating segments. This included changes in the composition of our operating segments, as well as measurement changes for certain activities between our operating segments. The primary effects of this realignment included establishment of a Renewable Fuels operating segment, which includes renewable fuels activities and assets historically reported in our Refining, Marketing and Specialties (M&S), and Midstream segments; change in method of allocating results for certain Gulf Coast distillate export activities from our M&S segment to our Refining segment; reclassification of certain crude oil and international clean products trading activities between our M&S segment and our Refining segment; and change in reporting of our investment in NOVONIX from our Midstream segment to Corporate and Other. Accordingly, prior period results have been recast for comparability.

    Source: Phillips 66

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Global: Recorded executions hit their highest figure since 2015

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Global executions hit their highest figure since 2015, as over 1,500 people were executed across 15 countries in 2024, said Amnesty International today as it released its annual report on the global use of the death penalty.

    According to the report, Death Sentences and Executions 2024, 1,518 executions were recorded in 2024 – the highest number since 2015 (at least 1,634) – with the majority in the Middle East. However, for the second year in a row, countries carrying out executions remained at the lowest point on record.

    The known totals do not include the thousands of people believed to have been executed in China, which remains the world’s lead executioner, as well as North Korea and Viet Nam which are also believed to resort to the death penalty extensively. Ongoing crises in Palestine (State of) and Syria meant that Amnesty International could not confirm a figure.

    The death penalty is an abhorrent practice with no place in
    today’s world.

    Agnès Callamard, Amnesty International’s Secretary General

    Iran, Iraq and Saudi Arabia were responsible for the overall rise in known executions. In total, the trio accounted for a staggering 1,380 recorded executions. Iraq almost quadrupled its executions (from at least 16 to at least 63) and Saudi Arabia doubled its yearly total (from 172 to at least 345), while Iran executed 119 more individuals than last year (from at least 853 to at least 972) – accounting for 64% of all known executions.

    “The death penalty is an abhorrent practice with no place in today’s world. While secrecy continued to shroud scrutiny in some countries that we believe are responsible for thousands of executions, it’s evident that states that retain the death penalty are an isolated minority. With just 15 countries carrying out executions in 2024, the lowest number on record for the second consecutive year, this signals a move away from this cruel, inhuman and degrading punishment,” said Agnès Callamard, Amnesty International’s Secretary General.

    “Iran, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia were responsible for the sharp spike in deaths last year, carrying out over 91% of known executions, violating human rights and callously taking people’s lives for drug-related and terrorism charges.”

    The five countries with the highest number of recorded executions in 2024 were China, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Iraq and Yemen.

    Authorities weaponizing death penalty

    Throughout 2024, Amnesty International witnessed leaders weaponizing the death penalty under the false pretence that it would improve public safety or to instil fear among the population. In the USA, which has experienced a steady upward trend in executions since the end of the Covid-19 pandemic, 25 people were executed (against 24 in 2023). Newly electedPresident Trump repeatedly invoked the death penalty as a tool to protect people “from violent rapists, murderers, and monsters”.  His dehumanizing remarks promoted a false narrative that the death penalty has a unique deterrent effect on crime.

    In some countries in the Middle East region, death sentences were used to silence human rights defenders, dissidents, protesters, political opponents, and ethnic minorities.

    Those who dare challenge authorities have faced the most cruel of punishments, particularly in Iran and Saudi Arabia, with the death penalty used to silence those brave enough to speak out.”

    Agnès Callamard

    “Those who dare challenge authorities have faced the most cruel of punishments, particularly in Iran and Saudi Arabia, with the death penalty used to silence those brave enough to speak out,” said Agnès Callamard.

    “In 2024, Iran persisted in their use of the death penalty to punish individuals who had challenged the Islamic Republic establishment during the Woman Life Freedom uprising. Last year saw two of those people – including a youth with a mental disability – executed in connection with the uprising following unfair trials and torture-tainted ‘confessions’, proving how far the authorities are willing to go to tighten their grip on power.”

    Saudi authorities continued to weaponize the death penalty to silence political dissent and punish nationals from the country’s Shi’a minority who supported “anti-government” protests between 2011 and 2013. In August, the authorities executed Abdulmajeed al-Nimr for terrorism-related offences related to joining Al-Qaeda, despite initial court documents referring to his participation in protests.

    The Democratic Republic of Congo announced its intention to resume executions while Burkina Faso’s military authorities announced plans to reintroduce the death penalty for ordinary crimes.

    Over 40% of 2024’s executions were carried out unlawfully for drug-related offences. Under international human rights law and standards, the use of the death penalty must be restricted for the ‘most serious crimes’ – sentencing people to death for drug-related offences does not meet this threshold.

    “Drug-related executions were prevalent in China, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Singapore and, while no confirmation was possible, likely Viet Nam. In many contexts,sentencing people to death fordrug-related offences has been found to disproportionately impact those from disadvantaged backgrounds, while it has no proven effect in reducing drug trafficking,” said Agnès Callamard.

    “Leaders who promote the death penalty for drug-related offences are proposing ineffective and unlawful solutions. States considering introducing capital punishment for drug-related offences, such as the Maldives, Nigeria and Tonga, must be called out and encouraged to put human rights at the centre of their drug policies.”

    The power of campaigning

    Despite a rise in executions, just 15 countries were known to have carried them out – the lowest number on record for the second consecutive year. As of today, 113 countries are fully abolitionist and 145 in total have abolished the death penalty in law or practice.

    In 2024, Zimbabwe signed into law a bill that abolished the death penalty for ordinary crimes. For the first time, more than two thirds of all UN member states voted in favour of the tenth General Assembly resolution on a moratorium on the use of the death penalty. Death penalty reforms in Malaysia also led to a reduction by more than 1,000 in the number of people at risk of execution.

    When people prioritize campaigning for an end to the death penalty, it really does work.

    Agnès Callamard

    Furthermore, the world witnessed the power of campaigning. Hakamada Iwao – who spent nearly five decades on death row in Japan – was acquitted in September 2024. This has continued into 2025. In March, Rocky Myers – a Black man sentenced to death in Alabama despite serious flaws in the proceedings – was granted clemency following calls from his family and legal team, a former juror, local activists and the international community.

    “When people prioritize campaigning for an end to the death penalty, it really does work,” said Agnès Callamard. “Despite the minority of leaders determined to weaponize the death penalty, the tide is turning. It’s only a matter of time until the world is free from the shadows of the gallows.”

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Global: Executions highest on record since 2015 – new death penalty report

    Source: Amnesty International –

    In 2024, global executions surged to 1,518, the highest since 2015 ​

    Iran, Iraq and Saudi Arabia responsible for 91% of executions

    Known totals do not include thousands of people believed to have been executed in China, which remains the world’s lead executioner

    Countries weaponising death penalty against protesters and there’s a rise in drug-related executions

    ‘Those who dare challenge authorities have faced the cruellest of punishments, particularly in Iran and Saudi Arabia, with the death penalty used to silence those brave enough to speak out’ – Agnès Callamard

    Global executions hit their highest figure since 2015, as over 1,500 people were executed across 15 countries in 2024, said Amnesty International today as it released its annual report on the global use of the death penalty.

    The 48-page report, Death Sentences and Executions 2024, found that 1,518 executions were recorded in 2024 – the highest number since 2015 (at least 1,634) – with the majority in the Middle East. However, for the second year in a row, countries carrying out executions remained at the lowest point on record.

    The known totals do not include the thousands of people believed to have been executed in China, which remains the world’s lead executioner, as well as North Korea and Vietnam which are also believed to resort to the death penalty extensively. Ongoing crises in Palestine (State of) and Syria meant that Amnesty could not confirm a figure.

    Iran, Iraq and Saudi Arabia were responsible for the overall rise in known executions. In total, the three countries accounted for a staggering 1,380 recorded executions. Iraq almost quadrupled its executions from at least 16 to at least 63 and Saudi Arabia doubled its yearly total from 172 to at least 345, while Iran executed 119 more individuals than last year rising from at least 853 to at least 972 accounting for 64% of all known executions.

    Agnès Callamard, Amnesty International’s Secretary General, said:

    “The death penalty is an abhorrent practice with no place in today’s world. While secrecy continued to shroud scrutiny in some countries that we believe are responsible for thousands of executions, it’s evident that countries that retain the death penalty are an isolated minority. With just 15 countries carrying out executions in 2024, the lowest number on record for the second consecutive year, this signals a move away from this cruel, inhuman and degrading punishment.

    “Iran, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia were responsible for the sharp spike in deaths last year, carrying out over 91% of known executions, violating human rights and callously taking people’s lives for drug-related and terrorism charges.”

    Authorities weaponising death penalty

    Throughout 2024, Amnesty witnessed leaders weaponising the death penalty under the false pretence that it would improve public safety or to instil fear among the population. In the USA, which has experienced a steady upward trend in executions since the end of the Covid-19 pandemic, 25 people were executed (against 24 in 2023). Newly elected President Trump repeatedly invoked the death penalty as a tool to protect people “from violent rapists, murderers, and monsters”. His dehumanising remarks promoted a false narrative that the death penalty has a unique deterrent effect on crime.

    In some countries in the Middle East region, death sentences were used to silence human rights defenders, dissidents, protesters, political opponents, and ethnic minorities.

    Agnès Callamard added:

    “Those who dare challenge authorities have faced the cruellest of punishments, particularly in Iran and Saudi Arabia, with the death penalty used to silence those brave enough to speak out.

    “In 2024, Iran persisted in their use of the death penalty to punish individuals who had challenged the Islamic Republic establishment during the Woman Life Freedom uprising. Last year saw two of those people – including a youth with a mental disability – executed in connection with the uprising following unfair trials and torture-tainted ‘confessions’, proving how far the authorities are willing to go to tighten their grip on power.”

    Saudi authorities continued to weaponise the death penalty to silence political dissent and punish nationals from the country’s Shi’a minority who supported “anti-government” protests between 2011 and 2013. In August, the authorities executed Abdulmajeed al-Nimr for terrorism-related offences related to joining Al-Qaeda, despite initial court documents referring to his participation in protests.

    The Democratic Republic of Congo announced its intention to resume executions while Burkina Faso’s military authorities announced plans to reintroduce the death penalty for ordinary crimes.

    Rise in executions for drug-related offences

    Over 40% of executions in 2024 were carried out unlawfully for drug-related offences. Under international human rights law and standards, the use of the death penalty must be restricted for the ‘most serious crimes’ – sentencing people to death for drug-related offences does not meet this threshold.

    Agnès Callamard said:

    “Drug-related executions were prevalent in China, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Singapore and, while no confirmation was possible, likely Vietnam. In many contexts, sentencing people to death for drug-related offences has been found to disproportionately impact those from disadvantaged backgrounds, while it has no proven effect in reducing drug trafficking.

    “Leaders who promote the death penalty for drug-related offences are proposing ineffective and unlawful solutions. States considering introducing capital punishment for drug-related offences, such as the Maldives, Nigeria and Tonga, must be called out and encouraged to put human rights at the centre of their drug policies.”

    The power of campaigning

    Despite a rise in executions, just 15 countries were known to have carried them out – the lowest number on record for the second consecutive year. As of today, 113 countries are fully abolitionist and 145 in total have abolished the death penalty in law or practice.

    In 2024, Zimbabwe signed into law a bill that abolished the death penalty for ordinary crimes. For the first time, more than two thirds of all UN member states voted in favour of the tenth General Assembly resolution on a moratorium on the use of the death penalty. Death penalty reforms in Malaysia also led to a reduction by more than 1,000 in the number of people at risk of execution.

    Furthermore, the world witnessed the power of campaigning. Hakamada Iwao – who spent nearly five decades on death row in Japan – was acquitted in September 2024. This has continued into 2025. In March, Rocky Myers – a Black man sentenced to death in Alabama despite serious flaws in the proceedings – was granted clemency following calls from his family and legal team, a former juror, local activists and the international community.

    Agnès Callamard added:

    “When people prioritise campaigning for an end to the death penalty, it really does work. Despite the minority of leaders determined to weaponise the death penalty, the tide is turning. It’s only a matter of time until the world is free from the shadows of the gallows.”

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Peacekeeping: Ceasefire monitoring is about acting on the ground – DPO Briefing | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Briefing by Jean-Pierre Lacroix, Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, on the United Nations peacekeeping operations, during the 9892nd meeting of the Security Council.

    ————————————

    Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations Jean-Pierre Lacroix highlighted the role of UN peacekeeping in ceasefire monitoring and said advances in technology “offer us the ability to extend and increase our impact and efficient use of resources by deploying monitoring capabilities far beyond the traditional demilitarized zones.”

    Lacroix told the Security Council that “today’s operating environment is increasingly dynamic and often characterized by hybrid threats that blur the boundaries among domains,” and in this context, “ceasefire monitoring can no longer be just about being present; it is about rapidly understanding and acting on what is happening on the ground.”

    He said the UN’s Digital Transformation Strategy’s integrated platforms “enable the tracking of ceasefire violations in near-real time, while mobile tools facilitate the rapid reporting and verification of incidents.

    In Lebanon, Lacroix said, the un peacekeeping mission in the country (UNIFIL) “has adopted a new posture to be fully responsive to the new reality and is instrumental in supporting the parties to uphold the cessation of hostilities and this through the five objectives of its Adaptation Plan.”

    He stressed that “while peacekeeping can be an integral part of the ceasefire monitoring regime, the success of any ceasefire remains the sole responsibility of the parties,” and emphasised that “the support of Member States, the support of host government and host parties, and more importantly, the support of this Council to our peacekeeping operations will continue to be absolutely essential if we are to succeed in the implementation of our mandate.”

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eTOuDY1hAUE

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: We must get disability-inclusive disaster risk reduction right — here are 5 ways to deliver results

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    We’ve done well in raising the profile of disability-inclusive disaster risk reduction — now it’s time to deliver results on the ground.

    As Sendai implementation picks up pace, I suggest five areas that could offer lasting wins for persons with disabilities – a group that comprises 15% of the global population.

    In early April 2025, I had the privilege of attending the Global Disability Summit in Berlin, which was hosted by the Governments of Germany and Jordan. Held at Station Berlin, at historic Potsdamer Platz, the event brought together more than 4,000 participants from across the world to explore how we can put persons with disability at the heart of every aspect of human life, to ensure that they are fully included in our collective flourishing.

    The atmosphere was truly inspiring, charged with hope, optimism and a palpable “can do” attitude. The phrase, “nothing about us, without us” rang out clearly as a powerful, heartfelt dictum. I was particularly glad to see disaster risk reduction (DRR) featuring prominently at the Summit.

    While the global, national, and local discourse on the topic has come a long way, specific on-the-ground actions still need to catch up. As one speaker said during the Opening Ceremony, we need to cultivate a sense of “radical curiosity about the experiences of persons with disability.”

    We’ve seen in several recent disasters that mortality and morbidity rates among persons with disability have been several times higher than the general populace – a reminder of the urgent work ahead. In the remaining five years of the Sendai Framework, if we pursue the following five strands with urgency, we will show the concrete results that we need:

    1. Embed disability inclusion in DRR plans and strategies

    A decade into the Sendai Framework’s implementation, the most progress has been on Target E – plans and strategies for disaster risk reduction. Yet many of these still fall short of addressing the specific needs and capacities of persons with disabilities.

    These strategies must be informed not only by data and evidence – such as census information on persons with different types of physical and intellectual disabilities – but also by the lived experience of persons with disabilities themselves. To make this happen we need to build an institutional culture that is responsive to specific individual needs, especially those of the most vulnerable people.

    2. Gather data on disaster impacts on persons with disabilities

    The Sendai Monitor calls for disaster loss data that is disaggregated by gender, age, and disabilities. However, only a few dozen countries presently collect and report such data for persons with disabilities. In some data-scarce contexts, this may be a challenging task – especially when the baseline data on persons with disabilities don’t exist.

    However, we must start somewhere. If we begin collecting data on disaster impacts on persons with disabilities now, in a few years this will throw up rich insights that can help us refine our strategies for persons with disabilities.

    3. Move from policies and guidelines to specific actions:

    In recent years, several countries – and sub-national bodies – have developed and adopted policies and guidelines for disability-inclusive disaster risk reduction – a close-to-home example (for me) is India, with guidelines at the national level and the sub-national level(Kerala State as one instance).

    What specific actions flow from these instruments? In the context of early warning systems, we’ve seen examples of standard operating procedures developed to ensure a suite of disability inclusive actions – from accessible warning and inclusive evacuation plans to suitable evacuation infrastructure. However, such concrete actions should also extend to address comprehensive disaster risk reduction efforts.

    Let’s take flood risk management as an example: if a community has to relocate away from a flood-prone settlement, how can it ensure that the new location is suitable for persons with disabilities? Or if houses are being retrofitted and being raised on stilts, how can these meet the needs of persons with disabilities? Similarly, what does it mean for persons with disabilities to “build back better” after disasters? We need to stretch our imagination of risk reduction to turn policies and guidelines into concrete inclusive actions.

    4. Extend access to assistive technologies

    The last decade has seen great progress in assistive technologies for persons with disabilities. Rapid advances in fields such as AI, neurosciences, and synthetic biology promise an even brighter future. But access to these technologies is highly unequal – between men and women, between developing and developed countries, between rural and urban areas, and so on.

    Governments must take a proactive policy stance to address these inequalities. Could disability-disaggregated census data be used to incentivize both public and private sector investments in developing assistive technologies that are cost-efficient and affordable?

    5. Ask: is it really working?

    And finally, we must find smarter ways to asses our impact. A good start would be for every post-disaster “after action review” to include this key question for persons with disabilities: “Did the systems work for you?”

    At UNDRR, we have made disability-inclusive DRR a priority. In my recent missions to Australia, Finland, Fiji and Germany, I was struck by deep commitment to this cause – and a rising sense of urgency – from governments. In Berlin, I had rich discussions with ministers from Italy and Scotland – both are serious about making real changes in their countries.

    UNDRR has endorsed the Amman-Berlin Declaration, the fruit of the Global Disability Summit. This declaration calls for all international development programmes to be inclusive of and accessible to persons with disabilities, and for at least 15% of country-level development programmes to explicitly pursue disability inclusion as an objective: “15 percent for the 15 percent.”

    We are making steady progress on disability inclusion in disaster risk reduction. With accelerated action and wider mobilization, transformational change is within reach!

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 2025 Rural Representative Election voter registration campaign starts

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    2025 Rural Representative Election voter registration campaign starts 
    There are three types of Rural Representatives, namely Indigenous Inhabitant Representatives (IIRs), Resident Representatives (ReRs) and Kaifong Representatives (KFRs). An IIR, returned by indigenous inhabitants, their spouses or surviving spouses of an Indigenous Village/Composite Indigenous Village, is to reflect views on the affairs of the village on behalf of its indigenous inhabitants, and to deal with affairs relating to the lawful traditional rights and interests and the traditional way of life of those indigenous inhabitants. An ReR, returned by residents (both indigenous and non-indigenous inhabitants) residing in an Existing Village, is to reflect views on the village affairs on behalf of its residents. A KFR, returned by residents residing in a Market Town (i.e. Cheung Chau and Peng Chau), is to reflect views on the affairs of the Market Town on behalf of its residents.
     
          “As the eligibility requirements for registration as electors vary for these elections, applicants should ascertain whether they meet the relevant requirements before registration,” an HAD spokesman said. 
         “Indigenous inhabitants, their spouses or surviving spouses who have been residing in an Existing Village or a Market Town for the three years immediately preceding the date of application for registration and meet the eligibility requirements for electors in the relevant election may register as electors for both the IIR Election and the ReR Election or the KFR Election through the submission of two separate applications for voter registration.” 
    Application forms for new voter registration and change of registration particulars by an elector can be obtained from the HAD, Home Affairs Enquiry Centres and overseas offices of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government, or downloaded from the RRE website. 
    The HAD will roll out the voter registration campaign through the RRE website, posters, newspaper advertisements and more to encourage eligible persons to register as electors and remind registered electors to update their registration particulars by the deadline.Issued at HKT 10:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Ignazio Cassis to attend Antalya Diplomacy Forum

    Source: Switzerland – Federal Administration in English

    Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis will represent Switzerland at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, which will be held in Turkey from 11 to 13 April. Mr Cassis will have discussions on geopolitical challenges during the forum, including a meeting with the Turkish foreign minister, Hakan Fidan. Prior to the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, Mr Cassis will visit the Turkish capital Ankara to attend an event marking the 100th anniversary of the signing of the treaty of friendship between Switzerland and Turkey.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Russian drone flyover of Italian JRC site in Ispra – E-001317/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001317/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Salvatore De Meo (PPE), Caterina Chinnici (PPE), Marco Falcone (PPE), Fulvio Martusciello (PPE), Letizia Moratti (PPE), Giusi Princi (PPE), Massimiliano Salini (PPE), Flavio Tosi (PPE)

    According to press reports, a Russian-made drone is said to have flown over the site of the Commission’s Joint Research Centre in Ispra (Varese) five times in the last month. One of the EU’s main scientific hubs, the facility conducts strategic research, including in the field of drone-related security. The site is also just a short distance away from sensitive facilities, such as that of defence contractor Leonardo.

    The Milan public prosecutor’s office will reportedly open a formal investigation into the matter, highlighting the sensitivity of the case from a security perspective. If reports are found to be true, the episode would be particularly significant as it could mean that – at a time when the geopolitical context calls for maximum vigilance – technological, scientific and national security are at risk.

    In light of the above:

    • 1.Is the Commission aware of the flyovers of the JRC site in Ispra and of any investigations being conducted by the relevant authorities?
    • 2.What measures are currently in place to protect and ensure the physical and cybersecurity of the EU’s strategic research centres?
    • 3.Will it open a specific inquiry into the Ispra affair to check for any weaknesses and step up the existing security measures?

    Submitted: 31.3.2025

    Last updated: 8 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – Women in Politics and the Fight Against Violence – Committee on Women’s Rights and Gender Equality

    Source: European Parliament

    On Wednesday, 9 April 2025, the FEMM Committee in association with EP Delegation for relations with the Federative Republic of Brazil will exchange views on Women in Politics and the Fight Against Violence.

    Four Members of the Chamber of Deputies of Brazil have been invited to exchange views on the challenges that women in politics are facing, and what measures we can jointly take to improve the situation, especially in the fight against violence.

    In Europe, women politicians face significant levels of violence, both online and offline, as a barrier to their participation in public life. A 2018 study by the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) found that 85% of surveyed women parliamentarians in Europe had experienced psychological violence, including threats and harassment, while 47% had received death, rape, or other forms of threats. Online abuse is particularly widespread, with Amnesty International reporting that women politicians in Europe receive disproportionate levels of hate speech, often with sexist and misogynistic undertones.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: MEXC to Launch DEX+ Alpha: Spot the Gems Before the Market

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, April 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MEXC, a leading global cryptocurrency exchange, announced the launch of MEXC Alpha on its decentralized trading platform, MEXC DEX+. This innovative product focuses on early-stage, high-potential crypto projects, aiming to help over 34 million users worldwide get ahead of market trends and seize the next big opportunity in the crypto space.

    MEXC DEX+ now fully supports the Solana ecosystem, integrating popular liquidity pools like pump.fun, PumpSwap, and Raydium, offering a wide selection of over 10,000 on-chain assets. DEX+ has also integrated top DEXs from the BSC ecosystem, including PancakeSwap, covering more than 5,000 popular tokens, ranging from DeFi projects to memecoins.

    The crypto market evolves rapidly and unpredictably. For everyday users to stay ahead of the curve and spot promising projects early requires deep industry knowledge combined with significant investments of both time and effort. MEXC DEX+ continues to roll out new features to help users invest with greater precision, which is exactly what MEXC Alpha is designed to do.

    MEXC Alpha highlights early-stage, high-potential projects across multi-chain ecosystems like Solana and BSC, keeping pace with trends in DeFi innovation, memecoin surges, and emerging trends. Backed by expert industry insights and real-time market data, Alpha provides trustworthy investment references. MEXC Alpha is a direct response to user needs: it leverages expert curation and robust technology to lower investment barriers, enabling every user to easily and efficiently select promising targets, invest in early-stage projects, and seize opportunities ahead of the market.

    MEXC Alpha features three core principles: Security, Efficiency, and Simplicity.
    Security: Backed by MEXC’s team of professionals, Alpha leverages industry insights and market data to carefully select and showcase high-potential projects from over 10,000 trending tokens. This helps users quickly identify promising opportunities and boost investment impact.
    Efficiency: Designed to secure the best trading prices and streamline the trading process, Alpha is available on both MEXC’s App and Web platforms, allowing users to monitor markets and seize opportunities anytime, anywhere.
    Simplicity: There’s no need to create a Web3 wallet or manage private keys. Users only need to create an MEXC account and activate the DEX+ wallet. By depositing SOL or BNB, they can start trading on-chain instantly, significantly lowering the entry barrier for everyday users.

    As the crypto market rapidly evolves and trends become increasingly fragmented, everyday users face greater challenges when it comes to research and decision-making. MEXC Alpha, powered by the insights of a professional team and a data-driven selection strategy, provides a simple and efficient trading experience to help users get ahead and discover the next potential 100x gem.

    Alpha is more than just a tool for uncovering valuable investments: it offers listed on-chain projects the opportunity to be featured on MEXC’s Spot or Futures markets. This mechanism shortens the complex path from on-chain discovery to exchange listing, enhancing both project visibility and trading efficiency, while giving early participants a unique edge.

    Join MEXC now, explore Alpha, and embark on your next journey in crypto investing.

    About MEXC

    Founded in 2018, MEXC is committed to being “Your Easiest Way to Crypto”. Serving over 34 million users across 170+ countries and regions, MEXC is known for its broad selection of trending tokens, frequent airdrop opportunities, and low trading fees. Our user-friendly platform is designed to support both new traders and experienced investors, offering secure and efficient access to digital assets. MEXC prioritizes simplicity and innovation, making crypto trading more accessible and rewarding.

    For more information, visit: MEXC Website｜X｜Telegram｜How to Sign Up on MEXC
    For media inquiries, please contact MEXC PR Manager Lucia Hu: lucia.hu@mexc.com

    Source

    Disclaimer: This press release is provided by MEXC. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector–including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining–complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release.Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose.Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e826fdfc-0c37-4309-baa9-bf1b87919b8b

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: African region’s maternal and newborn mortality declining, but progress still slow

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    BRAZZAVILLE, Congo (Republic of the), April 8, 2025/APO Group/ —

    The African region has made progress in lowering maternal mortality since 2000 but needs a 12-fold increase in the annual reduction rate to reach the Sustainable Development Goals (SGD) target of fewer than 70 deaths per 100 000 live births by 2030, new estimates by the United Nations Maternal Mortality Estimation Interagency Group show.

    Despite a 40% decline in maternal mortality, from 727 to 442 deaths per 100 000 live births between 2000 and 2023, the region still accounts for 70% of global maternal deaths. Each year, an estimated 178 000 mothers and 1 million newborns die in the Africa region – many from preventable causes.

    At the current annual reduction rate of 2.2% between 2000 and 2023, the region is projected to have nearly 350 maternal deaths per 100 000 live births by 2030, five times higher than the SDG target of fewer than 70 deaths.

    Likewise, although stillbirth and neonatal mortality rates have declined by 30% and 33% respectively between 2000 and 2023, sub-Saharan Africa still accounts for 47% of stillbirths and 46% of global newborn deaths. The region is projected to record neonatal mortality rate of about twice the SDG target of at least as low as 12 deaths per 1000 live births by 2030. 

    This year’s World Health Day, marked under the theme “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures,” calls on governments, donors and communities to ramp up efforts to end preventable maternal and newborn deaths and to prioritize the longer-term health and well-being of women and children.

    “In too many places, pregnancy and childbirth are still life-threatening events,” said Dr Chikwe Ihekweazu, Acting WHO Regional Director for Africa. “But it doesn’t have to be this way. Every dollar invested in maternal and newborn health delivers major returns: healthier families, stronger societies and sustainable economic growth.”

    Key barriers to progress include inadequate financing, weak governance, health workforce shortages and recurring shocks, such as disease outbreaks and conflicts, all of which disrupt maternal and child health services. In fragile and crisis-affected settings, women and children are particularly at risk.

    Leading causes of maternal deaths in the region include haemorrhage, hypertensive disorders, infections, unsafe abortion and obstructed labour, all conditions that are largely preventable or treatable with access to timely, quality care. Among newborns, preterm births, complications during childbirth, sepsis and neonatal infections, as well as congenital anomalies are the common causes of deaths.

    WHO is supporting countries across the region in implementing a wide range of interventions. These include developing and rolling out maternal and newborn health acceleration plans and implementing antenatal and postnatal care guidelines.

    Other priorities include increasing access to skilled health personnel at birth and emergency obstetric care, expanding special care for small and sick newborns, and tackling the social and economic drivers of health inequities.

    More than 60% of countries in the African region now report that over 80% of births are attended by skilled health personnel, a significant improvement from just 28% in 2010. However, progress varies across the region, with rural and crisis-affected areas continuing to face acute service shortage gaps.

    World Health Day 2025 marks the launch of a year-long campaign to drive investment and momentum in maternal and newborn health. Through stronger partnerships, accountability and bold leadership, WHO and partners aim to build a future in which no woman dies while giving life, and every child gets the chance to grow and thrive.

    MIL OSI Africa –