Category: Politics

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Deputy President stresses importance of coordinated approach to challenges

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Deputy President Paul Mashatile has stressed the need for a coordinated approach to peacebuilding and economic resilience.

    This as he highlighted that the conflicts between Russia and Ukraine and conflicts in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, Sudan, in the Sahel, and in Gaza, continue to exert a heavy human toll while heightening global insecurity. 

    The Deputy President was speaking at the United Nations University (UNU) in Tokyo, Japan on Tuesday. 

    The UNU, in partnership with the Embassy of South Africa in Japan, is co-hosting a symposium exploring South Africa’s G20 Presidency and steps to ensure solidarity, equality and sustainability for all. 

    Touching on the deepening conflict and instability across Africa and the world, the Deputy President said this requires coordinated preventive action including dedicated intervention on peace building that is programmatic in nature.

    “We are encouraged by the partnership between the United Nations University and the University of South Africa (UNISA) in cooperation with other relevant partner organisations to co-design and co-deliver required capacity building programmes for African leaders and mediators for resolving conflicts and blazing a path towards achieving peace, security and prosperity, “the Deputy President explained.

    He further emphasised the urgent need for comprehensive, African-centred peace-building research and training programmes that span throughout Africa to address the urgent demand for capacity for conflict management and resolution, as well as society reconstruction.

    G20 Presidency

    “In our G20 Presidency, South Africa will continue to advocate for diplomatic solutions. Inclusive dialogue is the foremost guarantor of sustainable peace.
    “South Africa has shown a firm resolve in its foreign policy by promoting principles of justice, solidarity, equality, peace, and respect, underpinned by its commitment to human dignity and leaving no one behind,” he said. 

    This was the reason South Africa has placed solidarity, equality, sustainability at the centre of its G20 Presidency.

    As part of South Africa’s G20 intention to place Africa’s development at the top of the agenda, Mashatile outlined four key priorities which are strengthening disaster resilience, ensuring debt sustainability for developing economies, mobilising finance for a just energy transition, and harnessing critical minerals for sustainable growth. 

    “Our hosting of the G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors Meeting, and the Business 20 provided an opportunity for us to promote South Africa and Africa as a business and investment destination and for the country to take the lead on providing solutions to global economic challenges,” he said. 

    He emphasised the country’s commitment to driving economic reforms, increasing investor confidence, and enhancing structural efficiencies in energy, water, and transport sectors.

    “We believe that addressing structural concerns is essential to maintaining investor confidence and ensuring long-term economic stability. It is only by accelerating structural reforms and harnessing the power of the private sector that the country can sustain economic momentum and attract further foreign investment.

    “As the South African government, we are implementing extensive structural, policy, and regulatory reforms to enhance the economy’s performance,” he said. 

    AI role in shaping Africa’s economic future

    The Deputy President also emphasised the role of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital transformation in shaping Africa’s economic future, calling for greater collaboration between African institutions and international organisations. 

    Quoting Professor Tshilidzi Marwala, he noted the need for South Africa to embrace AI while also ensuring ethical considerations remain central to its deployment. 

    He urged institutions like UNU to partner with African universities to foster digital skills development and AI-driven innovation.

    As the G20 Presidency has shifted to South Africa, the Deputy President said that AI has emerged as a key area of focus.

    Through the G20 Presidency, he said the country aims to harness AI to advance the Sustainable Development Goals agenda and address global challenges.

    “We encourage the United Nations University to work alongside Africa in the development of AI, which has the potential to considerably boost the continent’s economies. You must cooperate with additional universities in South Africa and throughout Africa to help overcome digital barriers, promote equality, and support inclusive sustainable development,” he said. 

    Mashatile added that African governments are also recognising the importance of the digital economy, which is heavily influenced by artificial intelligence. He noted that the digital economy and AI are becoming more important drivers of economic and social value creation throughout the world. 

    “We are investing in digital infrastructure, skills development, and entrepreneurship to assist Africa’s digital economy to expand,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI Africa: SA condemns Israeli airstrikes on Gaza

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    South Africa has condemned the extensive Israeli airstrikes carried out across Gaza dron Tuesday, resulting in the deaths of over 350 Palestinians. 

    The deadly airstrikes occurred following a failure to implement the second stage of the peace agreement with Israel, despite ongoing negotiations aimed at ensuring the ceasefire remains in effect.

    The fatal attacks were reportedly authorised by the Israeli leadership more than a week ago. 

    According to the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), this raises concerns about the commitment to the permanent ceasefire outlined in the plan negotiated by the United States, Egypt and Qatar.

    The Palestinian Health Ministry said many of those killed were children and several victims remain under the rubble.  

    Reports suggest that airstrikes were concentrated on heavily built-up neighbourhoods, makeshift schools and residential buildings where people have been sheltering, which is a “blatant violation of international law, including international humanitarian law”.

    “South Africa is gravely concerned by the military onslaught and the fact that millions of people in Gaza are facing severe food and water shortages, as Israel continues to block aid and cut off energy supplies to the strip,” DIRCO said in a statement. 

    Meanwhile, the department said Israel, which has enforced a total blockade of Gaza, has now issued new forced displacement orders for several areas. 

    The department said the provisional orders issued by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) oblige Israel to take all measures within its power to prevent acts of genocide, ensure humanitarian assistance reaches Gaza, and preserve evidence related to alleged genocide.

    The United Nations’ Humanitarian Coordinator for the Occupied Palestinian Territory, Muhannad Hadi, has urged that the ceasefire in Gaza be immediately reinstated. He called the waves of airstrikes across the Gaza Strip since the early hours of the morning “unconscionable.”

    South Africa has also condemned the four targeted Israeli military strikes launched against southern Syria overnight, which killed at least two and wounded 19 others on the outskirts of the southern Syrian province of Deraa.

    “The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said Israel targeted a military site previously used by former President Bashar al-Assad’s forces, but which is now used by the army of Syria’s transitional government. 

    “Israel’s airstrikes and previous statements that it does not want any Syrian military presence in the south of Syria is a violation of Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity,” DIRCO said. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Action taken against Harties Dam invasive alien plant

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister, Sello Seitlholo, and the Rhodes University Centre for Biological Control (CBC) have released weevil species to tackle the invasive alien aquatic plant at Hartbeespoort Dam in the North West.

    The salvinia weevil insect is a biological control agent known as Cyrtobagous salviniae, used to manage the Salvinia minima, an invasive floating alien aquatic weed (known as the common salvinia).

    The weevil species is a subaquatic herbivorous insect that feeds on the common salvinia. The species were imported from Florida State in the United Sates of America (USA), and it has proven to be effective and successful to control the aquatic plant in the USA.

    Joined by Professor Julie Coetzee, the Deputy Director of the Centre for Biological Control and Principal Scientist at the National Research Foundation’s South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity, Seitlholo officially released the salvinia weevil insect on Monday at Mogi Adventures, located next to the Crocodile River.

    The invasive alien plant was initially recorded at Hartbeespoort Dam in 2011, and has since spread through areas of the North West and Gauteng Provinces, and has reached the Limpopo River, which marks the border with the neighbouring country of Botswana, threatening South Africa’s water bodies.

    According to Coetzee, the weevils multiply quickly and their impact of controlling the aquatic plant can be observed in a year.

    She said the CBC, in collaboration with community partners, will rear the weevil and facilitate releases at various sites across the country where water is invaded by the common salvinia.

    “This biological control programme will be monitored and the progress of the weevil and its impact on common salvinia will be noted. The weevils only feed on the salvinia minima plant and their entire life cycle depends on the plant, thus they do not have a threat of infesting other ornamental plants, crops or even the water hyacinth plants,” Coetzee said.

    Seitlholo emphasised the importance of securing the country’s water resources by partnering with scientific institutes like the CBC.

    “What is also important is for us to get into serious conversations with municipalities in the upper catchment that are largely responsible for causing the high nutrient load in the water due to their substandard effluent discharged from their wastewater treatment works, which is being released into the river, eventually landing in the dam.

    “This results in high nutrient levels in the water, which gives rise to the spread of these alien invasive aquatic plants, compromising the ecosystem, recreation and the general local economy,” Seitlholo said.

    He said the use of the weevils will run concurrently with the other remediation programme currently underway at the dam, which is being implemented by Magalies Water to eradicate alien invasion species that have negatively impacted the ecosystem in the water.

    The remedial programme includes the physical removal of the water hyacinth at the dam. This also includes the pilot project of nanobubbles technology, which increases dissolved oxygen in the water, activates the decomposition of microorganisms in water and river sediment.

    Given that the quality of water is affected by the discharge of effluent and raw sewage from the municipalities of Tshwane, Johannesburg and Ekurhuleni, Seitlholo said municipalities ought to play a role in the remediation programmes undertaken by the department to rehabilitate the water resource.

    Despite the department’s Compliance, Enforcement and Monitoring Directorate engaging the municipalities, Seitlholo said the department has also proposed amendments to Section 19 of the National Water Act (NWA), which focuses on preventing and remedying the effects of pollution, ensuring the protection of water resources and addressing pollution.

    Seitlholo said the proposed amendments to the NWA, which are currently with the State Law Advisor, enable the department to directly hold the executive mayor and the municipal manager liable for the transgressions of the municipality in terms of the pollution of the country’s water courses.

    “These legislation measures are taken by the department to fundamentally deal with issues of water pollution in the country,” Seitlholo said. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI: Magnite’s ClearLine Equips Cross Screen Media with the Tools to Maximize Voter Reach

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WASHINGTON, March 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Magnite (NASDAQ: MGNI), the largest independent sell-side advertising company, announced an expanded partnership with Cross Screen Media following a successful 2024 election cycle. The adoption of ClearLine, Magnite’s self-service buying solution, helped Cross Screen Media bypass middlemen, put more spend toward working media, and drive incremental voter reach.

    In a 2024 statewide race, ClearLine was used in parallel with two DSPs and a linear TV schedule. Cross Screen Media’s measurement solution found that over a two-week period in October, ClearLine drove 4% incremental reach beyond the other digital and TV components, and 8% incremental reach beyond the DSPs alone.

    “It’s the job of every political advertiser to identify the voters that will swing an election and ensure your message is reaching them,” said Chauncey Southworth, CEO of Cross Screen Media. “Adding ClearLine removes intermediaries, creates a more direct line between campaign ad dollars and voters, and in combination with our cross-screen measurement solution, drives incremental reach that can be the difference in an election.”

    Founded in 2017, Cross Screen Media offers advertising technology built for politics, empowering agencies and their campaigns to win elections through data-driven media planning, activation, and measurement. With 40% of swing voters nationwide unreachable via linear TV, and elections often decided by fractions of a percent, direct avenues to CTV inventory are crucial to ensuring advertisers can maximize reach amongst likely voters. The fast-paced nature of politics means buyers need a responsive platform that makes it easy to adjust budgets, creatives, and targeting in an instant. Magnite’s ClearLine delivers on this by streamlining the buying process, establishing a more direct and efficient route to premium inventory, and significantly increasing spend allocated toward working media.

    “The savviest political advertisers are always seeking innovative, highly efficient, and measurable ways to connect with voters,” said Erik Brydges, Head of Political Demand at Magnite. “ClearLine helps Cross Screen Media and their agency customers accomplish this goal, and represents the future of how we believe CTV will be transacted. As CTV’s share of spend continues to grow, executing budgets directly within the supply side tech ecosystem provides immediate advantages to political campaigns.”

    About Magnite
    We’re Magnite (NASDAQ: MGNI), the world’s largest independent sell-side advertising company. Publishers use our technology to monetize their content across all screens and formats including CTV, online video, display, and audio. The world’s leading agencies and brands trust our platform to access brand-safe, high-quality ad inventory and execute billions of advertising transactions each month. Anchored in bustling New York City, sunny Los Angeles, mile high Denver, historic London, colorful Singapore, and down under in Sydney, Magnite has offices across North America, EMEA, LATAM, and APAC.

    About Cross Screen Media
    Cross Screen Media is a leading CTV activation managed service for political and public affairs agencies, built on a proprietary technology platform that enables advertisers to plan and measure local advertising across Connected TV and audience-driven Linear TV. We seamlessly fit into existing workflows to help agencies scale, differentiate and deliver high-impact campaigns for their clients.

    Media Contact:
    Megan Hughes
    mhughes@magnite.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: SpyCloud’s 2025 Identity Exposure Report Reveals Surging Identity-Based Threats as Stolen Identity Records Increase 22% from Last Year

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    AUSTIN, Texas, March 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SpyCloud, the leader in identity threat protection, today released its 2025 SpyCloud Annual Identity Exposure Report, uncovering the staggering scale of digital identity sprawl, the growing risks organizations face, and actionable insights to combat cyber threats before they escalate.

    SpyCloud has recaptured 53.3 billion distinct identity records, a 22% increase from 2023, underscoring the increasing prevalence of stolen data such as credentials and personally identifiable information (PII) circulating the darknet. These identity records, consisting of harvested employee, consumer, and supply chain data, are the fuel that power cyberattacks like ransomware, account takeover, and fraud – nearly 80% of breaches last year involved the use of stolen credentials. 

    Despite this surge in identity-based threats, many organizations remain unaware of the massive breadth of digital identity data stolen from users, traded among cybercriminals, and leveraged to infiltrate organizations.

    “Traditional security models focus on an isolated exposure data point, like a single stolen password or breached email, without accounting for the full picture of an individual’s digital footprint and other potential exposures,” said Damon Fleury, Chief Product Officer at SpyCloud. “But modern threats are far more complex. At SpyCloud, we’ve pioneered a holistic approach to identity security, mapping exposures across breaches, malware infections, phishing campaigns, and combolists to reveal the true scale of risk from compromised users. This shift is essential for defenders to proactively mitigate threats from stolen identity data before they escalate into full-scale cyberattacks.”

    Key Findings from the 2025 Annual Identity Exposure Report:

    The True Scale of Identity Exposure is Greater Than Previously Estimated

    By applying proprietary holistic identity matching, SpyCloud researchers discovered that the actual scale of exposure is, on average, more than twelve times larger than previously estimated – providing security teams with a clearer, more actionable picture of identity risk:

    • 146 identity records per corporate user → compared to just 11 using traditional methods
    • 141 stolen credential pairs per user → versus just 7 with legacy visibility
    • 74% of recaptured consumer records include location data, increasing risks of fraud and identity theft

    With a holistic approach to identity security, enterprises can move beyond isolated credential leaks and better understand their interconnected exposures – empowering them to act before an attack occurs.

    Infostealer Malware: The Primary Driver of Modern Cybercrime

    Infostealer malware – stealthy, highly efficient tools that extract user information, browser cookies, and system details from infected devices – has emerged as one of the most persistent and dangerous threats to enterprise security. SpyCloud recaptures data from more than 75 different malware families including LummaC2, Redline Stealer, and Vidar. This year’s research into the recaptured data from those families found that:

    • About 1 in 2 of corporate users were exposed through infostealer malware in the past year through a personal or corporate device
    • 7 million stolen credentials for third-party applications were recaptured—a 48% increase from last year. Trending third-party application targets include:
      • 895,802 stolen credentials for enterprise AI tools, exposing sensitive business insights and proprietary data
      • 159,313 stolen credentials from password managers, undermining critical security layers
    • 17 billion stolen cookies were recaptured, enabling attackers to side-step multi-factor authentication (MFA) and hijack active sessions

    Infostealers’ role in identity exposures has real, lasting effects on businesses and individuals. Last year, nearly one-third of companies that suffered a ransomware attack had previously experienced an infostealer infection.

    Phishing: A Growing Threat Fueled by AI and Phishing-as-a-Service (PhaaS)

    Phishing tactics evolved in 2024, becoming more sophisticated with AI-driven campaigns and turnkey PhaaS platforms. Attackers increasingly targeted high-value data, including personal and corporate credentials, financial accounts, and session cookies. SpyCloud’s 2025 research reveals:

    • 97% of recaptured phished data contains email addresses
    • 64% contains IP addresses
    • 51% contains city or postal codes, increasing risks of location-based fraud

    PII Exposure Surges, Fueling Identity Fraud

    The exposure of PII reached 44.8 billion recaptured records in 2024 – a 39% increase from the previous year – due in large part to breaches such as the Mother of All Breaches (MOAB) and the National Public Data Breach. Both exploding the available PII circulating the criminal underground and still providing cybercriminals with the raw materials to commit identity fraud and financial crimes. Key exposed PII data points include:

    • 3.05 billion Social Security and national ID numbers
    • 4.4 billion full names
    • 2.8 billion phone numbers
    • 42.97 million passport and driver’s license numbers
    • 36.97 million credit card numbers

    Cybercriminals are also capitalizing on sprawling digital identities and expanding their targets to include other forms of credentials. SpyCloud also recaptured 33.1 million exposed API keys and 147,132 compromised cryptowallet addresses, highlighting critical vulnerabilities in modern digital ecosystems.

    Weak Password Practices Continue to Undermine Security

    Despite growing awareness of identity threats, weak password practices remain a constant source of risk, making users easy targets for automated credential stuffing and account takeover attacks:

    • 3.1 billion exposed passwords were recaptured – a 125% increase from last year
    • 70% of users exposed in breaches last year reused previously-exposed passwords across multiple accounts, up from 61% in 2023
    • Most commonly exposed passwords include: “123456,” “Admin,” “Qwerty”
    • Pop culture continues to drive popular password choices. While these passwords are personal to the users, they are predictable and continue to reign as a top entry point for threat actors.
      • Almost 3 billion referenced the fall season
      • 7.5 million referenced major international events in tennis 
      • Over 7 million referenced cats 
      • Passwords influenced by video games surged, including passwords related to The Legend of Zelda (2 million), Super Mario Brothers (almost 1.5 million) and Fortnite (almost 1 million)
      • Passwords influenced by the year’s hottest artists such as Taylor Swift (1.5 million) and Charli XCX (295,000) were also common

    Looking Ahead: Proactive Identity Protection is Critical

    As identity threats continue to evolve, organizations must adopt a proactive, holistic approach to identity security. Defending against cybercrime requires continuous monitoring for dark web identity exposures, rapid and automated remediation of stolen identity data, and enhanced security measures to combat emerging threats.

    “The rise of infostealer malware and ever-evolving phishing attacks created a surge in the theft of sensitive identity data, but the size and scale of breaches like MOAB and NPD demonstrate traditional attack methods continue to be dangerous,” said Trevor Hilligoss, Senior Vice President of Security Research, SpyCloud Labs at SpyCloud. “In an era where identity data is cybercriminals’ most valuable currency, organizations must think beyond traditional security perimeters and leverage intelligence from the criminal underground to disrupt cybercrime before it strikes.”

    Read the full 2025 SpyCloud Identity Exposure Report here.

    About SpyCloud

    SpyCloud transforms recaptured darknet data to disrupt cybercrime. Its automated holistic identity threat protection solutions leverage advanced analytics to proactively prevent ransomware and account takeover, safeguard employee and consumer accounts, and accelerate cybercrime investigations. SpyCloud’s data from breaches, malware-infected devices, and successful phishes also powers many popular dark web monitoring and identity theft protection offerings. Customers include seven of the Fortune 10, along with hundreds of global enterprises, mid-sized companies, and government agencies worldwide. Headquartered in Austin, TX, SpyCloud is home to more than 200 cybersecurity experts whose mission is to protect businesses and consumers from the stolen identity data criminals are using to target them now.

    To learn more and see insights, users can visit spycloud.com.

    Contact:
    Emily Brown
    REQ on behalf of SpyCloud
    spycloud@req.co

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Mashatile to lead official World TB Day and National End TB campaign

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    The Chairperson of the South African National AIDS Council (SANAC), Deputy President Paul Mashatile, will deliver the keynote address at the national World TB Day commemorative event on Monday, 24 March 2025. 

    World TB Day is commemorated annually on the 24th of March to raise public awareness about the global epidemic of tuberculosis (TB) and highlight efforts to eliminate the disease. 

    The day is also designated to highlight the devastating health, social and economic impact of TB. 

    During the event on Monday, the Deputy President will also launch the National End TB Campaign at the Ugu Sports and Leisure Centre in Gamalakhe Township, Ugu District, KwaZulu-Natal.

    According to the Presidency, South Africa is one of the countries most affected by TB and remains the leading cause of death in the country, claiming approximately 56 000 lives each year, with 54% of these deaths among people living with HIV.

    This year’s official country theme for World TB Day is “Yes! You and I Can End TB – Commit, Invest, Deliver”.

    “This is a clarion call for leaders to champion TB efforts in their respective constituencies and encourage individual action from all South Africans to contribute to the national effort against TB.“

    The Deputy President’s Office said the significance of this year’s commemoration will be marked by the launch of the National End TB campaign designed to substantially reduce TB incidence and mortality in South Africa by 2035. 

    This campaign will be carried out in phases, beginning with a focus on case finding and linking patients to care in the year 2025/26.

    The campaign aims to diagnose 250 000 new TB cases by 2025/26 through targeted testing of five million people. 

    This will be accomplished by implementing Accelerated Targeted Universal TB Testing (TUTT) to reach individuals living with HIV and household contacts with confirmed TB cases.

    The Deputy President will be joined by the Minister of Health Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, Premier of KwaZulu-Natal Thamsanqa Ntuli, SANAC Civil Society Chairperson Solly Nduku, Chairperson of the SANAC Private Sector Forum Mpumi Zikalala, and SANAC CEO Dr Thembi Xulu. 

    They will also be joined by representatives from development partners inclusive of the United Nations agencies, United States government agencies, research entities, civil society movements and the private sector. – SAnews.gov.za
     

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI Africa: KZN Premier’s Coordinating Forum reinforces inclusive governance

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Wednesday, March 19, 2025

    The KwaZulu-Natal Premier’s Coordinating Forum (PCF) District Development Model (DDM) Indaba has reinforced the provincial government’s commitment to fostering inclusive governance, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring that municipalities operate in synergy to drive sustainable development.

    KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Thamsanqa Ntuli, presided over the indaba which was held in Mayville, west of central Durban, on Tuesday.

    The PCF DDM Indaba served as a strategic platform to launch integrated service delivery initiatives and roadshows across KwaZulu-Natal’s 11 municipal districts.

    These efforts were geared toward improving the implementation of the DDM which seeks to align government policies, plans, and programs for more effective service delivery.

    The discussions focused on key governance challenges, including the need for improved coordination, and the importance of a unified approach to development.

    It reinforced the provincial government’s commitment to fostering inclusive governance, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring that municipalities operate in synergy to drive sustainable development.

    Addressing the meeting, Ntuli emphasised the importance of intergovernmental collaboration in ensuring that government services reach communities efficiently and equitably.

    “As KwaZulu-Natal continues to implement the DDM framework, the provincial government would remain steadfast in its mission to create a well-coordinated and service-driven administration that meets the needs of its people,” the Premier said.

    The PCF aims to promote and facilitate intergovernmental relations and co-operative government between the province and the municipalities in the province. The forum also seeks unity of purpose and co-ordination of effort around the development priorities of the province. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI: One Stop Systems Reports Q4 2024 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Strength in both segments contributed to consolidated year-over-year revenue growth for Q4 2024

    Consolidated revenue increased sequentially every quarter throughout 2024, reflecting the success of the Company’s transformation strategy to higher-growth markets

    Management expects double-digit consolidated revenue growth in 2025, driven by anticipated OSS segment revenue of over 20% and consolidated EBITDA break even for the year

    ESCONDIDO, Calif., March 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — One Stop Systems, Inc. (“OSS” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: OSS), a leader in rugged Enterprise Class compute for artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML) autonomy and sensor processing at the edge, reported results for the three- and twelve-month periods ended December 31, 2024. Comparisons for the three- and twelve-month periods are to the same year-ago periods unless otherwise noted.

    “I am pleased to report a return to consolidated year-over-year revenue growth for the fourth quarter, as sales from both our OSS and Bressner segments grew at double digit rates. Throughout 2024 we executed on our multi-year transformation, making significant progress in shifting our business toward higher-margin, higher-growth markets. We invested in our platform, strengthened our pipeline, and deepened collaboration with customers developing high-performance, Enterprise Class, edge computing solutions for both commercial and defense applications,” stated OSS President and CEO, Mike Knowles.

    “As efforts to reposition the Company for revenue growth gained momentum during 2024 and our business model evolved, we adjusted our legacy inventory and program costs to better align with our focus on improving efficiencies and increasing profitability. We believe the progress we made in 2024 strengthened our business, positioning the Company for higher sales and profitability in 2025 and beyond,” concluded Mr. Knowles.

    2024 Fourth-Quarter Financial Summary

    Consolidated revenue was $15.1 million, compared to $13.2 million in the fourth quarter of 2023. The 15.1% year-over-year increase was a result of a $1.3 million increase in Bressner segment revenue and a $642,000 year-over-year increase in OSS segment revenue. The 10% year-over-year increase in OSS segment revenue was primarily due to higher revenue from defense and commercial customers, as well as new customer-funded development orders, aligned directly with the Company’s strategic focus and plan.

    The following table sets forth net revenue by segment for the three months ended December 31, 2024, and December 31, 2023 (Dollars may not calculate due to rounding):

      Three Months Ended
    Entity: December 31, 
    2024
      % of Net
    Revenue

      December 31, 
    2023
      % of Net
    Revenue

      % Change  
    OSS $ 7,042,613   46.5 %   $ 6,401,047   48.7 %   10.0 %
    Bressner   8,097,533   53.5 %     6,754,161   51.3 %   19.9 %
    Total net revenue $ 15,140,146   100.0 %   $ 13,155,209   100.0 %   15.1 %
     

    During the fourth quarter ended December 31, 2024, the Company took a charge related to contract losses of $1.2 million for incurred and anticipated costs to satisfy performance obligations on a customer-funded development contract that was entered into in 2022.   This charge reduced reported gross margin, net income, and adjusted EBITDA for the three- and twelve-month periods ended December 31, 2024. Management does not currently foresee any further charges related to this customer-funded development contract.  

    Consolidated gross margin percentage was 15.7%, compared to 33.7% in the prior year quarter. Gross margin, excluding the one-time charges, was 23.8%, compared to 33.7% in the same period last year. The decrease in gross margin was primarily due to product mix.

    On a segment basis, the OSS segment had a gross margin of 9.4%, compared to 45.9% for the same period a year ago. OSS segment gross margin, excluding the one-time charges, was 26.8%, compared to 45.9%. The decrease from the same period last year was primarily driven by product mix. The Company’s Bressner segment had a gross margin percentage of 21.2%, compared to 22.2% in the same period last year.  

    Total operating expenses increased 15.1% to $5.5 million. This increase was predominantly attributable to higher general and administrative costs related to planned sales and program management investments made during the quarter.

    The Company reported a net loss of $3.1 million, or $(0.15) per share, as compared to a net loss of $278,000, or $(0.01) per share, in the prior year period.

    Adjusted EBITDA, a non-GAAP metric, was a loss of $2.3 million, inclusive of $1.2 million in one-time charges, compared to adjusted EBITDA of $322,000 in the prior year period.

    As of December 31, 2024, the Company reported cash and short-term investments of $10.0 million and total working capital of $24.0 million, compared to cash and short-term investments of $11.8 million and total working capital of $35.6 million at December 31, 2023. The reduction in cash and short-term investments was primarily driven by the paydown of $1 million of notes payable.  

    2024 Twelve Months Financial Summary

    Consolidated revenue was $54.7 million, compared to $60.9 million for the same period last year. The 10.2% year-over-year reduction in consolidated revenue was primarily a result of approximately $4.8 million related to a former media customer, for whom shipments ceased in the second quarter of 2023. This decrease was partially offset by higher sales to customers in the military and defense end markets. In addition, Bressner segment revenue declined by $2.0 million on a year-over-year basis, associated with slower economic activity in the German economy.  

    The following table sets forth net revenue by segment for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, and December 31, 2023 (Dollars may not calculate due to rounding):

      Twelve Months Ended
    Entity: December 31, 
    2024
      % of Net
    Revenue

      December 31, 
    2023
      % of Net
    Revenue

      % Change
    OSS $ 24,558,809   44.9 %   $ 28,809,888   47.3 %   (14.8 )%
    Bressner   30,135,550   55.1 %     32,086,910   52.7 %   (6.1 )%
    Total net revenue $ 54,694,358   100.0 %   $ 60,896,798   100.0 %   (10.2 )%
                                 

    For the year ended December 31, 2024, the Company incurred a total of $8.3 million of one-time charges that reduced reported gross margin, net income, and adjusted EBITDA. During the fourth quarter of 2024, the Company took a charge related to contract losses of $1.2 million for incurred and anticipated costs to satisfy performance obligations on a customer-funded development contract that was entered into in 2022.   Additionally, during the year, OSS incurred $7.1 million of inventory charges related to obsolete and slow-moving inventory associated with the transition of the Company’s business model and operating strategies, as well as slower adoption and movement in certain commercial and defense edge compute markets. Management does not currently foresee any further significant adjustments to costs related to this customer-funded development contract or inventory charges, outside of historical trends.  

    Consolidated gross margin percentage was 14.1%, compared to 29.5% in the prior year. On a full year basis, consolidated gross margin, excluding one-time charges, was 29.3%, compared to 29.5% in 2023.

    On a segment basis, the Company’s OSS segment had a gross margin of 2.5%, compared to 35.6% for the same period a year ago. OSS segment gross margin, excluding one-time charges, was 36.4%, up from 35.6% for 2023. The Company’s Bressner segment had a gross margin of 23.5%, compared to 24.0% in the same period last year.  

    Total operating expenses decreased 18.6% to $21.1 million. This decrease was predominantly attributable to a charge of $5.6 million for an impairment of goodwill that occurred during the 2023 twelve-month period, the elimination of costs associated with organizational restructuring, timing of certain new product introduction activities and the deployment of engineering resources onto customer funded development efforts, partially offset by increased costs for personnel and for tradeshow participation.

    The Company reported a net loss of $13.6 million, or $(0.65) per share, as compared to a net loss of $6.7 million, or $(0.32) per share, in the prior year. Non-GAAP net loss and loss per share was $11.6 million, or $(0.56) per share, as compared to non-GAAP net loss and loss per share of $415,000, or $(0.02) per share, in the prior year period. Net loss and non-GAAP net loss for the period ended December 31, 2024, are inclusive of $8.3 million of one-time charges.

    Adjusted EBITDA, a non-GAAP metric, was a loss of $10.3 million, inclusive of $7.1 million of inventory-related charges and a $1.2 million contract loss related to a customer-funded development contract that was entered into in 2022, compared to adjusted EBITDA of $1.1 million in the prior year.

    2025 Full Year Outlook

    The Company anticipates consolidated revenue of $59 to $61 million for the full year of 2025. This includes expected OSS segment revenue of approximately $30 million, representing over 20% year-over-year growth in the OSS segment. In addition, the Company expects to be EBITDA break-even for the full year of 2025. Management expects revenue and profitability to improve at a higher rate in the second half of 2025 based on current trends and the Company’s expanding sales pipeline.   

    Conference Call

    OSS will hold a conference call to discuss its results for the fourth quarter of 2024, followed by a question-and-answer period.

    Date: Wednesday, March 19, 2025
    Time: 10:00 a.m. ET (7:00 a.m. PT)
    Toll-free dial-in: 1-800-717-1738
    International dial-in: 1-646-307-1865
    Conference ID: 35863 (required for entry)
    Webcast: https://viavid.webcasts.com/starthere.jsp?ei=1706031&tp_key=7e52a82afd

    A replay of the call will be available after 1:00 p.m. ET on March 19, 2025, through April 2, 2025.

    Toll-free replay: 1-844-512-2921
    International replay: 1-412-317-6671
    Passcode: 1135863

    About One Stop Systems

    One Stop Systems, Inc. (Nasdaq: OSS) is a leader in AI enabled solutions for the demanding ‘edge’. OSS designs and manufactures Enterprise Class compute and storage products that enable rugged AI, sensor fusion and autonomous capabilities without compromise. These hardware and software platforms bring the latest data center performance to harsh and challenging applications, whether they are on land, sea or in the air.

    OSS products include ruggedized servers, compute accelerators, flash storage arrays, and storage acceleration software. These specialized compact products are used across multiple industries and applications, including autonomous trucking and farming, as well as aircraft, drones, ships and vehicles within the defense industry.

    OSS solutions address the entire AI workflow, from high-speed data acquisition to deep learning, training and large-scale inference, and have delivered many industry firsts for industrial OEM and government customers.

    As the fastest growing segment of the multi-billion-dollar edge computing market, AI enabled solutions require—and OSS delivers—the highest level of performance in the most challenging environments without compromise.

    OSS products are available directly or through global distributors. For more information, go to www.onestopsystems.com. You can also follow OSS on X, YouTube, and LinkedIn.

    Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    We believe that the use of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, or adjusted EBITDA, is helpful for an investor to assess the performance of the Company. The Company defines adjusted EBITDA as income (loss) before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization, acquisition expense, impairment of long-lived assets, financing costs, government funded programs, fair value adjustments from purchase accounting, stock-based compensation expense, and expenses related to discontinued operations.

    Adjusted EBITDA is not a measurement of financial performance under generally accepted accounting principles in the United States, or GAAP. Because of varying available valuation methodologies, subjective assumptions and the variety of equity instruments that can impact a company’s non-cash operating expenses, we believe that providing a non-GAAP financial measure that excludes non-cash and non-recurring expenses allows for meaningful comparisons between our core business operating results and those of other companies, as well as providing us with an important tool for financial and operational decision making and for evaluating our own core business operating results over different periods of time.

    Our adjusted EBITDA measure may not provide information that is directly comparable to that provided by other companies in our industry, as other companies in our industry may calculate non-GAAP financial results differently, particularly related to non-recurring and unusual items. Our adjusted EBITDA is not a measurement of financial performance under GAAP, and should not be considered as an alternative to operating income or as an indication of operating performance or any other measure of performance derived in accordance with GAAP. We do not consider adjusted EBITDA to be a substitute for, or superior to, the information provided by GAAP financial results.

      For the Three Months Ended
    December 31,
        For the Year Ended 
    December 31,
     
      2024     2023     2024     2023  
    Net loss $ (3,134,782 )   $ (277,560 )   $ (13,634,333 )   $ (6,716,176 )
    Depreciation and amortization of intangibles   226,417       263,743       1,041,837       1,077,516  
    Amortization of right-of-use assets, net of changes in lease liability   (2,488 )     (30,208 )     29,885       22,592  
    Stock-based compensation expense   564,176       454,461       1,988,125       2,345,358  
    Interest expense   3,206       29,662       74,116       117,774  
    Interest income   (100,805 )     (159,487 )     (477,745 )     (544,958 )
    Impairment of goodwill                     5,630,788  
    Employee retention credit (ERC)                     (1,716,727 )
    Provision for income taxes   157,120       41,796       726,502       927,128  
    Adjusted EBITDA $ (2,287,156 )   $ 322,407     $ (10,251,613 )   $ 1,143,296  
                           

    FOOTNOTE: Adjusted EBITDA for the fourth quarter and full year ended December 31, 2024, included a charge related to contract losses of $1.2 million for incurred and anticipated costs to satisfy performance obligations on a customer-funded development contract that was entered into in 2023. Adjusted EBITDA for the full year ended December 31, 2024, also included inventory-related charges of $7.1 million.  

    (Dollars may not calculate due to rounding)

    Adjusted EPS excludes the impact of certain items and, therefore, has not been calculated in accordance with GAAP. We believe that exclusion of certain selected items assists in providing a more complete understanding of our underlying results and trends and allows for comparability with our peer company index and industry. We use this measure along with the corresponding GAAP financial measures to manage our business and to evaluate our performance compared to prior periods and the marketplace. The Company defines non-GAAP income (loss) as income or (loss) before amortization, government funded programs, impairment of long lived assets, stock-based compensation, expenses related to discontinued operations, and acquisition costs. Adjusted EPS expresses adjusted income (loss) on a per share basis using weighted average diluted shares outstanding.

    Adjusted EPS is a non-GAAP financial measure and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for financial information provided in accordance with GAAP. These non-GAAP financial measures may not be computed in the same manner as similarly titled measures used by other companies. We expect to continue to incur expenses similar to the adjusted income from continuing operations and adjusted EPS financial adjustments described above, and investors should not infer from our presentation of these non-GAAP financial measures that these costs are unusual, infrequent or non-recurring.

    The following table reconciles non-GAAP net income and basic and diluted earnings per share:

      For the Three Months Ended 
    December 31,
        For the Full Year Ended
    December 31,
     
      2024     2023     2024     2023  
    Net loss $ (3,134,782 )   $ (277,560 )   $ (13,634,333 )   $ (6,716,176 )
    Amortization of intangibles                     42,154  
    Impairment of goodwill                     5,630,788  
    Employee retention credit (ERC)                     (1,716,727 )
    Stock-based compensation expense   564,176       454,461       1,988,125       2,345,358  
    Non-GAAP net loss $ (2,570,606 )   $ 176,901     $ (11,646,208 )   $ (414,603 )
    Non-GAAP net loss per share:                      
    Basic $ (0.12 )   $ 0.01     $ (0.56 )   $ (0.02 )
    Diluted $ (0.12 )   $ 0.01     $ (0.56 )   $ (0.02 )
    Weighted average common shares outstanding:                      
    Basic   21,120,396       20,632,300       20,953,397       20,854,777  
    Diluted   21,120,396       20,632,300       20,953,397       20,854,777  
                           

    FOOTNOTE: Non-GAAP net loss for the fourth quarter and full year ended December 31, 2024, included a charge related to contract losses of $1.2 million for incurred and anticipated costs to satisfy performance obligations on a customer-funded development contract that was entered into in 2023. Non-GAAP net loss for the full year ended December 31, 2024, also included an inventory charge of $6.1 million.  

    (Dollars may not calculate due to rounding)

    Forward-Looking Statements

    One Stop Systems cautions you that statements in this press release that are not a description of historical facts are forward-looking statements. These statements are based on the company’s current beliefs and expectations. The inclusion of forward-looking statements should not be regarded as a representation by One Stop Systems or its partners that any of our plans or expectations will be achieved, including but not limited to, our ability to expand our product offerings and further penetrate our target markets, future demand for AI/ML integrations, expected or anticipated increase in revenues, and our business strategies. Actual results may differ from those set forth in this press release due to the risk and uncertainties inherent in our business, including risks described in our prior press releases and in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), including under the heading “Risk Factors” in our latest Annual Report on Form 10-K and any subsequent filings with the SEC. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof, and the company undertakes no obligation to revise or update this press release to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof. All forward-looking statements are qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement, which is made under the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.

    Media Contacts:
    Robert Kalebaugh
    One Stop Systems, Inc.
    Tel (858) 518-6154
    Email contact

    Investor Relations:
    Andrew Berger
    Managing Director
    SM Berger & Company, Inc.
    Tel (216) 464-6400
    Email contact

    ONE STOP SYSTEMS, INC. (OSS)
    CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
     
      Audited     Audited  
      December 31,     December 31,  
      2024     2023  
    ASSETS          
    Current assets          
    Cash and cash equivalents $ 6,794,093     $ 4,048,948  
    Short-term investments   3,217,065       7,771,820  
    Accounts receivable, net   8,177,371       8,318,247  
    Inventories, net   13,176,156       21,694,748  
    Prepaid expenses and other current assets   836,364       611,066  
    Total current assets   32,201,048       42,444,829  
    Property and equipment, net   1,669,026       2,370,224  
    Operating lease right-of use assets   1,536,094       1,922,784  
    Deposits and other   38,093       38,093  
    Goodwill   1,489,722       1,489,722  
    Total Assets $ 36,933,982     $ 48,265,652  
               
    LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY          
    Current liabilities          
    Accounts payable $ 2,068,017     $ 1,201,781  
    Accrued expenses and other liabilities   4,806,675       3,202,519  
    Current portion of operating lease obligation   285,937       390,926  
    Current portion of notes payable   1,035,050       2,077,895  
    Total current liabilities   8,195,679       6,873,121  
    Deferred tax liability, net   52,574       44,673  
    Operating lease obligation, net of current portion   1,513,684       1,765,536  
    Total liabilities   9,761,937       8,683,330  
    Commitments and contingencies          
    Stockholders’ equity          
    Common stock, $0.0001 par value; 50,000,000 shares authorized; 21,148,810 and 20,661,341 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively   2,115       2,066  
    Additional paid-in capital   49,082,737       47,323,673  
    Accumulated other comprehensive income   140,254       675,310  
    Accumulated deficit   (22,053,061 )     (8,418,727 )
    Total stockholders’ equity   27,172,045       39,582,322  
    Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity $ 36,933,982     $ 48,265,652  
               
    ONE STOP SYSTEMS, INC. (OSS)
    UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
    (Dollars may not calculate due to rounding)
     
      For the Three Months Ended
    December 31,
        For the Year Ended
    December 31,
     
      2024     2023     2024     2023  
    Revenue:                      
    Product $ 14,280,939     $ 12,335,554     $ 51,003,350     $ 59,200,580  
    Customer funded development   859,207       819,655       3,691,009       1,696,217  
        15,140,146       13,155,209       54,694,358       60,896,797  
    Cost of revenue:                      
    Product   10,829,859       8,229,397       42,953,344       41,907,604  
    Customer funded development   1,930,800       491,242       4,022,707       1,034,571  
        12,760,659       8,720,639       46,976,051       42,942,175  
    Gross (loss) profit   2,379,487       4,434,570       7,718,307       17,954,622  
    Operating expenses:                      
    General and administrative   2,413,102       1,970,746       8,971,909       9,264,447  
    Impairment of goodwill                     5,630,788  
    Marketing and selling   1,821,918       1,667,765       8,005,982       6,651,516  
    Research and development   1,250,377       1,127,194       4,097,229       4,331,024  
    Total operating expenses   5,485,397       4,765,704       21,075,120       25,877,775  
    Loss from operations   (3,105,910 )     (331,134 )     (13,356,813 )     (7,923,153 )
    Other income (expense), net:                      
    Interest income   100,805       159,487       477,745       544,958  
    Interest expense   (3,206 )     (29,662 )     (74,116 )     (117,774 )
    Employee retention credit (ERC)         418,431             1,716,727  
    Other income (expense), net   30,647       (452,886 )     45,353       (9,806 )
    Total other income, net   128,246       95,370       448,982       2,134,105  
    Loss before income taxes   (2,977,664 )     (235,764 )     (12,907,831 )     (5,789,048 )
    Provision for income taxes   157,119       41,796       726,502       927,128  
    Net loss $ (3,134,783 )   $ (277,560 )   $ (13,634,333 )   $ (6,716,176 )
                           
    Net loss per share:                      
    Basic $ (0.15 )   $ (0.01 )   $ (0.65 )   $ (0.32 )
    Diluted $ (0.15 )   $ (0.01 )   $ (0.65 )   $ (0.32 )
                           
    Weighted average common shares outstanding:                      
    Basic   21,120,396       20,632,300       20,953,397       20,854,777  
    Diluted   21,120,396       20,632,300       20,953,397       20,854,777  
                                   
    ONE STOP SYSTEMS, INC. (OSS)
    UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
     
      For the Twelve Months Ended
    December 31,
      2024     2023 
    Cash flows from operating activities:        
    Net loss $ (13,634,333 )   $ (6,716,176 )
    Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by operating activities:        
    Deferred income taxes   28,082       (95,496 )
    Loss (gain) on disposal of property and equipment   354        
    Provision for bad debt   85,447       4,160  
    Impairment of goodwill         5,630,788  
    Warranty reserves   (79,962 )     11,846  
    Amortization of intangibles         42,154  
    Depreciation   1,041,837       1,035,362  
    Amortization of right-of-use assets   377,206       1,241,445  
    Inventory reserves   7,348,390       962,458  
    Stock-based compensation expense   1,988,125       2,345,358  
    Employee retention credit         (1,716,727 )
    Changes in operating assets and liabilities:        
    Accounts receivable   (190,339 )     3,095,701  
    Inventories   658,303       (1,636,153 )
    Prepaid expenses and other current assets   (238,554 )     (100,848 )
    Accounts payable   926,231       (3,408,487 )
    Accrued expenses and other liabilities   1,928,436       83,789  
    Operating lease liabilities   (347,321 )     (1,218,853 )
    Net cash provided by operating activities   (108,098 )     (439,679 )
             
    Cash flows from investing activities:        
    Redemption of short-term investment grade securities   4,553,535       2,342,552  
    Purchases of property and equipment, including capitalization of labor   (362,748 )     (821,753 )
    Net cash provided by investing activities   4,190,787       1,520,799  
             
    Cash flows from financing activities:        
    Proceeds from exercise of stock options and warrants   237,749       62,422  
    Payment of payroll taxes on net issuance of employee stock options   (466,762 )     (597,856 )
    Repayments on notes payable   (954,939 )     (1,352,637 )
    Employee retention credit benefit         1,716,727  
    Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities   (1,183,952 )     (171,344 )
             
    Net change in cash and cash equivalents   2,898,737       909,776  
    Effect of exchange rates on cash   (153,592 )     26,977  
    Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period   4,048,948       3,112,196  
    Cash and cash equivalents, end of period $ 6,794,093     $ 4,048,948  

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-Evening Report: Swarbrick pleads for NZ cross-party support for sanctions on Israel

    By Russell Palmer, RNZ News political reporter

    Green Party co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick says the need for Aotearoa New Zealand to impose sanctions against Israel has grown more urgent after airstrikes on Gaza resumed, killing more than 400 people.

    Swarbrick lodged a member’s bill in December and said that with all opposition parties backing it, the support of just six backbench government MPs would mean it could skip the “biscuit tin” and be brought to Parliament for a first reading.

    “I feel as though every other day there is something else which adds urgency, but yes — I think as a result of the most recent round of atrocities and particularly the public focus, attention, energy and effort that is being that has been put on them, that, yes, parliamentarians desperately need to act.

    Swarbrick claimed there were government MPs who were keen to support her bill, saying it was why her party was publicly pushing the numbers needed to get it across the line.

    “We have the most whipped Parliament in the Western world,” she said. “We would hope that parliamentarians would live up to all of those statements that they make about their values and principles when they do their bright-eyed and bushy-tailed maiden speeches.

    “The time is now, people cannot hide behind party lines anymore.

    “I know for a fact that there are government MPs that are keen to support this kaupapa.”

    Standing order allowance
    Standing Order 288 allows MPs who are not ministers or undersecretaries to indicate their support for a member’s bill.

    If at least 61 MPs get behind it, the legislation skips the “biscuit tin” ballot.

    If answered, Swarbrick’s call would be the first time this process is followed.

    Labour confirmed its support for the bill last week.

    A coalition spokesperson said the government’s policy position on the matter remained unchanged, including in response to Swarbrick’s bill.

    New Zealand has consistently advocated for a two-state solution to the Middle East conflict.

    Swarbrick pointed to New Zealand’s support — alongside 123 other countries — of a UN resolution calling for sanctions against those responsible for Israel’s presence in the occupied Palestinian territories, including in relation to settler violence.

    Conditional support
    The government’s support for the resolution was conditional and included several caveats — including that the 12-month timeframe for Israel to withdraw from the occupied territories was “unrealistic”, and noted the resolution went beyond what was initially proposed.

    None of the other 123 countries which supported the resolution have yet brought sanctions against Israel.

    “Unfortunately, in the several months following that resolution in September of last year, our government has done nothing to fulfil that commitment,” Swarbrick said.

    The Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ permanent representative to the UN Carolyn Schwalger in September noted that the Resolution imposed no obligations on New Zealand beyond what already existed under international law, but “New Zealand stands ready to implement any measures adopted by the UN Security Council”.

    NZ ambassador to the UN Carolyn Schwalger speaking at the UN General Assembly . . . “New Zealand stands ready to implement any measures adopted by the UN Security Council.” Image: Screenshot/UN General Assembly livestream/RNZ

    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon in December said the government had a long-standing position of travel bans on extremist Israeli settlers in the occupied territories, and wanted to see a two-state solution developed.

    Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said its military pressure against Hamas was to secure the release of the remaining hostages taken by Hamas during the October 7 attack, and “this is just the beginning”.

    Israel continues to deny accusations of genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity.

    South African genocide case against Israel
    However, South Africa has taken a case of genocide against Israel to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and the trial remains ongoing with 14 countries having confirmed that they are intervening in support of South Africa.

    The attack on Israel in 2023 left 1139 people dead, with about 250 hostages taken.

    UN Secretary General António Guterres said in a tweet he was “outraged” by the Israeli airstrikes.

    “I strongly appeal for the ceasefire to be respected, for unimpeded humanitarian assistance to be re-established and for the remaining hostages to be released unconditionally,” he said.

    This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Chancellor’s National Wealth Fund to deliver growth and boost security

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Chancellor’s National Wealth Fund to deliver growth and boost security

    Chancellor sets new strategy for National Wealth Fund to reflect our Plan for Change, unlocking billions of pounds of private investment into the UK.

    • New strategic steer will see National Wealth Fund take on higher risk projects as government goes further and faster to kickstart economic growth, make Britain a clean energy superpower and boost security.
    • Government also launches recruitment for a new National Wealth Fund CEO to build on the £1.8 billion unlocked in private investment since July.

    The National Wealth Fund will unlock over £70 billion in private investment to help deliver economic growth, make Britain a clean energy superpower, and strengthen the defence sector, the Chancellor has confirmed today [19 March]. 

    The new strategic direction sets clean energy, advanced manufacturing, digital technologies, and transport as new priority sectors for the National Wealth Fund. Money will be invested across the United Kingdom in projects like carbon capture, green hydrogen, gigafactories, green steel, and ports.  

    Crucially, the Chancellor’s steer will help direct investment to the industries our defence sector relies on – advanced manufacturing and digital and dual-use technologies – working with industry to keep Britain safe and building on the Government’s commitment to increase spending on defence and national security to 2.5% of GDP from April 2027.   

    The National Wealth Fund’s economic capital limit will also be increased from £4.5 billion to £7 billion, allowing it take on greater risk. This means it has more flexibility over its investments and can support more projects that struggle to access private finance.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rt Hon Rachel Reeves MP, said:

    My number one mission is kickstarting economic growth through our Plan for Change to make Great Britain a stronger, more resilient country and put more money into the pockets of working people.

    I am determined to go further and faster to get our economy growing. By directing tens of billions of pounds into the UK’s industrial strengths, we’ll deliver the high-skilled, high-paid jobs of the future in every corner of the country.

    Since July last year, the National Wealth Fund has unlocked 9,900 jobs and nearly £1.8 billion of private investment in growth-driving industries like green energy and technology. 

    Investment has already started flowing into priority sectors including £55 million for Connected Kerb to increase coverage of EV charging networks and a £28.6 million investment into Cornish Metals. 

    The Chancellor’s strategic steer comes as a new £9.6 million National Wealth Fund investment was announced today for Solihull Council to improve the area’s heating infrastructure and reduce bills, providing low carbon heating, hot water and power to town centre buildings. 

    To lead this new chapter for the UK’s flagship public investor, the Government has also launched a recruitment campaign for the National Wealth Fund’s next CEO. 

    John Flint will step down from the role of CEO in the summer after successfully seeing through the National Wealth Fund’s transition from the UK Infrastructure Bank. 

    The Chancellor will also establish a new UK Strategic Public Investment Forum joining up the UK’s leading policymakers and public financial institutions including the CEOs of the National Wealth Fund, British Business Bank, UK Export Finance, Homes England, Innovate UK, and Great British Energy and The Crown Estate. 

    The forum – the first of its kind – will cooperate on delivering investments to the priority areas set out by the Chancellor and will be tasked with ensuring the Government is getting maximum impact for its investments.  

    Stemming from this, the National Wealth Fund will work closely with Great British Energy to support its quick establishment as a publicly owned clean energy company that will boost Britain’s energy security making it a clean energy superpower, lower bills, create jobs, and grow the economy.

    Investing in homegrown clean energy industries is an essential part of the government’s drive to replace the UK’s dependency on fossil fuel markets controlled by petrostates and dictators with clean, homegrown power.

    Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, Rt Hon Ed Miliband MP, said:

    Clean power is the economic opportunity of the 21st century – and through the National Wealth Fund we will seize this opportunity to invest in British industries and workers.

    We are delivering our clean energy superpower mission to make our country energy secure and deliver the good jobs that the British people deserve.

    More details on Great British Energy’s developer mandate have also been released today.

    The partnership between Great British Energy and the National Wealth Fund will see the former bringing project development expertise as well as investment, and the latter providing finance, a model already being deployed in Japan and Denmark. 

    Harnessing private investment via the National Wealth Fund is part of the Government’s wider efforts to kickstart economic growth and deliver a new era of security and renewal through our Plan for Change. 

    Cutting red tape so major infrastructure projects can progress, removing unnecessary hurdles in the planning system so more homes can be built, and progressing new economic partnerships with international partners like Japan and India is part of the work being undertaken to grow the economy and put more money in people’s pockets.


    More information

    Updates to this page

    Published 19 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI USA: NSF Project Evaluates Students’ Attitudes Toward Human Rights in Engineering 

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    Every year, more than 2 million tourists flock to the Peruvian Andes town of Cusco, to visit remnants of the Inca Empire and its world-famous citadel, Machu Picchu. Rapid urbanization with this tourism boom however, didn’t develop at the same pace as infrastructure and transportation services. 

    “As a result, low-income residents who live on the outskirts of the city’s center have less access to employment, medical care, education, and social events because they don’t own a private vehicle or their communities lack public transportation,” explains Davis Chacón-Hurtado, an assistant professor jointly appointed in Civil and Environmental Engineering and the Gladstein Family Human Rights Institute. “This is a key barrier for many people to access opportunities and services, resulting in barriers to participation and disparities in access.”

    By using an engineering for human rights-based approach, Chacón-Hurtado and doctoral student Ashley Benítez Ou developed a metric of transport disadvantage and equal access in Cusco’s outer districts. Their goal is to provide data-driven insights so that rural Cusco residents have equal access to essential services. 

    “We as engineers have the potential to either alleviate or intensify societal challenges. Engineering shapes every facet of human life, and with this level of influence comes a profound responsibility.” — Davis Chacón-Hurtado

    “Having the ability to see a doctor or travel to the inner city to work is a human right,” Chacón-Hurtado says. “We as engineers have the potential to either alleviate or intensify societal challenges. Engineering shapes every facet of human life, and with this level of influence comes a profound responsibility.” 

    Chacón-Hurtado is Principal Investigator on a recently awarded National Science Foundation grant, “Measuring Changes in Attitudes Towards Human Rights in Engineering Students,” that explores ways expand students’ awareness of engineering’s societal impact. He and fellow UConn researchers will use the study’s findings to shape human rights curriculum for engineering students. 

    Other members of the research team include Arash Esmaili Zaghi, professor of civil and environmental engineering; Shareen Hertel, Wiktor Osiatyński Chair of Human Rights and professor of political science; and Betsy McCoach, professor of research methods, measurements, and evaluation from the Neag School of Education. Chacón-Hurtado and Hertel also co-direct UConn’s Engineering for Human Rights Initiative, a collaborative venture between UConn’s College of Engineering and the UConn’s Gladstein Family Human Rights Institute. 

    “As students progress through their undergraduate education, their concern for societal well-being tends to diminish,” Chacón-Hurtado says. “The Measuring Changes project proposes that incorporating human rights—particularly principles like indivisibility of rights, accountability, and participation—into the engineering curricula can bridge this gap, fostering a more socially aware generation of engineers.” 

    The Learning Modules  

    Chacón-Hurtado and his team are developing contextualized training modules that will be deployed within current engineering curriculum. The four main modules are aligned with specific learning objectives. They cover foundational concepts of human rights and related ethical paradigms; historical perspectives and connections between engineering and human rights; human rights-based and ethical approaches to engineering practice; and tools used by engineers to assess the impact of human rights and consideration of human rights impacts. The content is based in part on critical observations gleaned during teaching that Chacón-Hurtado carried out jointly with Sandra Sirota, assistant professor in residence in Human Rights and Experiential Global Learning—in particular, from their course on “Engineering for Human Rights” (ENGR/HRTS 2300). The team has the help of a graduate research assistant, Natalie Goncalves, a Master’s student in Human Rights.  

    During the NSF grant period, the research team will integrate the four modules within a controlled comparative research setting, by applying them selectively to student cohorts across two classes: Transportation Engineering and Planning (CE 2710) and Civil Engineering Projects (CE 4900W). Not every student will receive the extra training modules. As part of this quasi-experimental design structure, one group is considered the “treatment” and the other the “control” group.  

    After deploying the modules, the team will survey both groups to measure the effectiveness of the modules by measuring the change in attitudes towards human rights in engineering. They’ll derive psychometric measures from the survey results and use statistical reports to support the quantitative differences.  

    “Our hypothesis is that tailored engineering modules focused on human rights positively influence the attitudes of engineering students towards human rights and the social impact of engineering in society, when compared to a control group of students who do not receive human rights education using a quasi-experimental design,” Zaghi says.  

    Beyond UConn 

    Assistant Professor Davis Chacón-Hurtado, pictured here at an EWB project in Peru, received an NSF grant to study how engineering students perceive human rights in engineering. Findings from this project are relevant to broader human rights education in STEM (contributed photo)

    Once the study is completed, the outcomes and modules will be available freely to both English and Spanish speakers on the Engineering for Human Rights website. 

    “We hope that these dissemination efforts will reach not only engineering educators but also human rights organizations and community-based groups with experience in engaging communities in New England and abroad,” Chacón-Hurtado says. “We hope this will also facilitate research on the development of practical and cross-culturally appropriate tools for education, training, and mentorship tools from diverse contexts and schools in both the U.S. and Global South.”  

    “Human rights are critical enablers of economic development and shared prosperity, promoting progress within the United States and throughout the world – whether in global regions like Cusco, Peru or rural parts of the US,” Chacón-Hurtado says.  

    Ongoing Efforts in Engineering for Human Rights  

    This innovative approach to engineering education is integral to the broader Engineering for Human Rights Initiative at UConn, which applies a human rights framework to diverse engineering challenges—from sanitation to sustainable transportation, and from environmental risk management to economic resilience research. Several students, faculty, and alumni have already completed projects in the discipline: 

    • Faculty are contributing to the UConn Brownfields Program, supporting the remediation of contaminated sites throughout New England.  
    • And alumnus Kevin Musco ’19 (ENG, Human Rights), H’23 JD is using his degree in human rights to objectively assess risk and opportunities in a more wholistic manner. He uses these skills in his current job as an associate attorney at Cohen and Wolf, P.C. in New York City.  

     “The field of human rights offers something for everyone,” Musco says in this past Engineering News article. “For those who currently study the natural or applied sciences, concepts from human rights can be applied to ‘humanize’ subjects which otherwise lack a prominent social aspect.” 

     Additionally, UConn has already gained national recognition for its novel integrative approach to developing the engineering and human curriculum.  

     In November 2024, Chacón-Hurtado and Hertel collaborated with staff of the National Academy of Engineering’s Cultural, Ethical, Social, and Environmental Responsibility in Engineering (CESER) Program and the National Academies’ Committee on Human Rights (CHR) to develop and host a two-day symposium on “Issues at the Intersection of Engineering and Human Rights.” The workshop engaged academic, industry, government and NGO representatives in considering together how engineering solutions could be aligned with human rights principles to address local and global challenges. Chacón-Hurtado, who was integral to the organizing committee, characterized the symposium as “an inspiring event to understand the many ways in which engineering can not only impact human rights but also be enriched by incorporating them at its core.” 

    Recordings of the symposium are available on YouTube.   

     Zaghi believes attitudes toward human rights in engineering should focus on epistemic justice, which means valuing diverse talent, perspectives, and knowledge without forcing any political agendas or ideologies. 
    “Engineering should serve humanity as a whole,” he says. “Engineers need to ensure fairness by including different voices and avoiding biased designs. The focus must remain on technical evidence and practical solutions rather than virtuous narratives. Human rights in engineering are about creating systems that are fundamentally fair, accessible, and enable economic development and shared prosperity. This approach keeps engineering grounded in universal principles and ensures that it benefits everyone.” 

    Read more about human-rights centered engineering at UConn in this recent UConn Today story.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Stoke-on-Trent City Council becomes an Endometriosis Friendly Employer

    Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

    Published: Wednesday, 19th March 2025

    The city council has become only the second local authority in England to be officially recognised as an Endometriosis Friendly Employer.

    The city council has signed up to the national scheme – run by leading charity Endometriosis UK – to pledge its support to colleagues impacted by the chronic condition.

    The move highlights the council’s commitment to creating a more inclusive, supportive workplace.

    Endometriosis affects around 1.5 million people across the UK. The condition occurs when cells similar to the lining of the womb grow elsewhere in the body.

    These cells can grow and change in response to hormones in the menstrual cycle and can cause inflammation, pain and scar tissue.

    Symptoms include chronic pelvic pain, painful periods, painful bowel movements and pain when urinating. It can take on average nearly nine years to get a diagnosis, showing the lack of understanding of the condition.

    As part of the scheme, the council will appoint Endometriosis Champions. These staff – who will be trained by Endometriosis UK – will provide guidance, raise awareness, and offer practical support to colleagues living with the condition.

    Councillor Lynn Watkins, cabinet member of health and wellbeing, said: “I am proud that the city council has become only the second local authority in England to be an Endometriosis Friendly Employer. Joining this scheme is a significant step towards creating a more understanding and supportive workplace to support our employees who live with endometriosis.

    “This condition can take a physical and mental toll on those diagnosed, but we are committed to making our staff feel supported as they navigate balancing the condition with their work.

    “We look forward to working with Endometriosis UK and hope that it inspires others in the city and others in local government to take this step and join the scheme as well.”

    Emma Cox, CEO of Endometriosis UK said: “I’m delighted to welcome the Stoke-on-Trent City Council to the diverse range of organisations tackling taboos around menstrual health and endometriosis through the Endometriosis Friendly Employer scheme.

    “By showing its team that they are valued and can expect support and reasonable adjustments to help those with endometriosis and menstrual conditions succeed at work, they will be increasing engagement across the whole of their workforce, ultimately making the organisation more successful.”

    As well as providing support services, reliable information and a sense of community, Endometriosis UK works to ensure that everyone with the condition gets a prompt diagnosis and the best treatment and support, whilst raising awareness to the wider public.

    For more information about the Endometriosis Employer Scheme, visit: https://www.endometriosis-uk.org/endometriosis-friendly-employer-scheme  

    To learn more about Endometriosis and support available, visit the Endometriosis UK website: https://www.endometriosis-uk.org/  

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI: YieldMax™ ETFs Announces Distributions on CRSH (100.59%), ULTY (79.43%), TSLY (76.84%), LFGY (66.79%), SNOY (63.58%) and Others

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO and MILWAUKEE and NEW YORK, March 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — YieldMax™ today announced distributions for the YieldMax™ Weekly Payers and Group A ETFs listed in the table below.

    ETF Ticker1 ETF Name Distribution Frequency Distribution
    per Share
    Distribution Rate2,4 30-Day 
    SEC Yield3
    ROC5 Ex-Date &
    Record Date
    Payment
    Date
    GPTY YieldMax™ AI & Tech Portfolio Option Income ETF Weekly $0.2640 33.60% 0.00% 0.00% 3/20/2025 3/21/2025
    LFGY YieldMax™ Crypto Industry & Tech Portfolio Option Income ETF Weekly $0.4723 66.79% 0.00% 53.27% 3/20/2025 3/21/2025
    QDTY YieldMax™ Nasdaq 100 0DTE Covered Call ETF Weekly $0.3124 47.65% 3/20/2025 3/21/2025
    RDTY YieldMax™ R2000 0DTE Covered
    Call ETF
    Weekly $0.3193 0.00% 3/20/2025 3/21/2025
    SDTY YieldMax™ S&P 500 0DTE Covered Call ETF Weekly $0.3175 100.00% 3/20/2025 3/21/2025
    ULTY YieldMax™ Ultra Option Income Strategy ETF Weekly $0.0977 79.43% 0.00% 100.00% 3/20/2025 3/21/2025
    YMAG YieldMax™ Magnificent 7 Fund of Option Income ETFs Weekly $0.0850 29.28% 61.87% 24.87% 3/20/2025 3/21/2025
    YMAX YieldMax™ Universe Fund of Option Income ETFs Weekly $0.1526 57.05% 85.03% 43.60% 3/20/2025 3/21/2025
    CRSH  YieldMax™ Short TSLA Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4 weeks $0.6458 100.59% 3.00% 98.10% 3/20/2025 3/21/2025
    FEAT YieldMax™ Dorsey Wright Featured 5 Income ETF Every 4 weeks $0.6925 25.57% 122.88% 0.00% 3/20/2025 3/21/2025
    FIVY YieldMax™ Dorsey Wright Hybrid 5 Income ETF Every 4 weeks $0.7092 25.90% 67.34% 0.00% 3/20/2025 3/21/2025
    GOOY YieldMax™ GOOGL Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4 weeks $0.3284 33.98% 4.12% 0.00% 3/20/2025 3/21/2025
    OARK YieldMax™ Innovation Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4 weeks $0.3210 51.60% 3.25% 71.26% 3/20/2025 3/21/2025
    SNOY YieldMax™ SNOW Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4 weeks $0.8119 63.58% 2.45% 0.00% 3/20/2025 3/21/2025
    TSLY YieldMax™ TSLA Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4 weeks $0.4638 76.84% 4.69% 94.16% 3/20/2025 3/21/2025
    TSMY YieldMax™ TSM Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4 weeks $0.5772 47.98% 3.59% 93.02% 3/20/2025 3/21/2025
    XOMO YieldMax™ XOM Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4 weeks $0.2950 26.06% 3.38% 77.73% 3/20/2025 3/21/2025
    YBIT YieldMax™ Bitcoin Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4 weeks $0.4357 56.11% 1.61% 97.70% 3/20/2025 3/21/2025
    Weekly Payers & Group B ETFs scheduled for next week: GPTY LFGY QDTY RDTY SDTY ULTY YMAG YMAX BABO DIPS FBY GDXY JPMO MARO MRNY NVDY PLTY
     

    Performance data quoted represents past performance and is no guarantee of future results. Investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when sold or redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost and current performance may be lower or higher than the performance quoted above. Performance current to the most recent month-end can be obtained by calling (833) 378-0717.

    Note: DIPS, FIAT, CRSH and YQQQ are hereinafter referred to as the “Short ETFs”.

    Distributions are not guaranteed.  The Distribution Rate and 30-Day SEC Yield are not indicative of future distributions, if any, on the ETFs.  In particular, future distributions on any ETF may differ significantly from its Distribution Rate or 30-Day SEC Yield. You are not guaranteed a distribution under the ETFs. Distributions for the ETFs (if any) are variable and may vary significantly from period to period and may be zero. Accordingly, the Distribution Rate and 30-Day SEC Yield will change over time, and such change may be significant.

    Investors in the Funds will not have rights to receive dividends or other distributions with respect to the underlying reference asset(s).

    1   All YieldMax™ ETFs shown in the table above (except YMAX, YMAG, FEAT, FIVY and ULTY) have a gross expense ratio of 0.99%. YMAX, YMAG and FEAT have a Management Fee of 0.29% and Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses of 0.99% for a gross expense ratio of 1.28%. FIVY has a Management Fee of 0.29% and Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses of 0.59% for a gross expense ratio of 0.88%. “Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses” are indirect fees and expenses that the Fund incurs from investing in the shares of other investment companies, namely other YieldMax™ ETFs. ULTY has a gross expense ratio after the fee waiver of 1.30%. The Advisor has agreed to a fee waiver of 0.10% through at least February 28, 2026.

    2   The Distribution Rate shown is as of close on March 18, 2025. The Distribution Rate is the annual distribution rate an investor would receive if the most recent distribution, which includes option income, remained the same going forward. The Distribution Rate is calculated by annualizing an ETF’s Distribution per Share and dividing such annualized amount by the ETF’s most recent NAV. The Distribution Rate represents a single distribution from the ETF and does not represent its total return. Distributions may also include a combination of ordinary dividends, capital gain, and return of investor capital, which may decrease an ETF’s NAV and trading price over time. As a result, an investor may suffer significant losses to their investment. These Distribution Rates may be caused by unusually favorable market conditions and may not be sustainable. Such conditions may not continue to exist and there should be no expectation that this performance may be repeated in the future.

    3  The 30-Day SEC Yield represents net investment income, which excludes option income, earned by such ETF over the 30-Day period ended February 28, 2025, expressed as an annual percentage rate based on such ETF’s share price at the end of the 30-Day period.

    4  Each ETF’s strategy (except those of the Short ETFs) will cap potential gains if its reference asset’s shares increase in value, yet subjects an investor to all potential losses if the reference asset’s shares decrease in value. Such potential losses may not be offset by income received by the ETF. Each Short ETF’s strategy will cap potential gains if its reference asset decreases in value, yet subjects an investor to all potential losses if the reference asset increases in value. Such potential losses may not be offset by income received by the ETF.

    5 ROC refers to Return of Capital. The ROC percentage is the portion of the distribution that represents an investor’s original investment.

    Each Fund has a limited operating history and while each Fund’s objective is to provide current income, there is no guarantee the Fund will make a distribution. Distributions are likely to vary greatly in amount.

    Standardized Performance

    For YMAX, click here. For YMAG, click here. For TSLY, click here. For OARK, click here. For APLY, click here. For NVDY, click here. For AMZY, click here. For FBY, click here. For GOOY, click here. For NFLY, click here. For CONY, click here. For MSFO, click here. For DISO, click here. For XOMO, click here. For JPMO, click here. For AMDY, click here. For PYPY, click here. For SQY, click here. For MRNY, click here. For AIYY, click here. For MSTY, click here. For ULTY, click here. For YBIT, click here. For CRSH, click here. For GDXY, click here. For SNOY, click here. For ABNY, click here. For FIAT, click here. For DIPS, click here. For BABO, click here. For YQQQ, click here. For TSMY, click here. For SMCY, click here.  For PLTY, click here. For BIGY, click here. For SOXY, click here. For MARO, click here. For FEAT, click here. For FIVY, click here. For LFGY, click here. For GPTY, click here. For CVNY, click here. For SDTY, click here. For QDTY, click here. For RDTY, click here.

    Important Information

    This material must be preceded or accompanied by the prospectus. For all prospectuses, click here.

    Tidal Financial Group is the adviser for all YieldMax™ ETFs.

    THE FUND, TRUST, AND ADVISER ARE NOT AFFILIATED WITH ANY UNDERLYING REFERENCE ASSET.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable to all YieldMax ETFs referenced above, except the Short ETFs)

    YMAX, YMAG, FEAT and FIVY generally invest in other YieldMax™ ETFs. As such, these two Funds are subject to the risks listed in this section, which apply to all the YieldMax™ ETFs they may hold from time to time.

    Investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible.

    Call Writing Strategy Risk. The path dependency (i.e., the continued use) of the Fund’s call writing strategy will impact the extent that the Fund participates in the positive price returns of the underlying reference asset and, in turn, the Fund’s returns, both during the term of the sold call options and over longer periods.

    Counterparty Risk. The Fund is subject to counterparty risk by virtue of its investments in options contracts. Transactions in some types of derivatives, including options, are required to be centrally cleared (“cleared derivatives”). In a transaction involving cleared derivatives, the Fund’s counterparty is a clearing house rather than a bank or broker. Since the Fund is not a member of clearing houses and only members of a clearing house (“clearing members”) can participate directly in the clearing house, the Fund will hold cleared derivatives through accounts at clearing members.

    Derivatives Risk. Derivatives are financial instruments that derive value from the underlying reference asset or assets, such as stocks, bonds, or funds (including ETFs), interest rates or indexes. The Fund’s investments in derivatives may pose risks in addition to, and greater than, those associated with directly investing in securities or other ordinary investments, including risk related to the market, imperfect correlation with underlying investments or the Fund’s other portfolio holdings, higher price volatility, lack of availability, counterparty risk, liquidity, valuation and legal restrictions. 

    Options Contracts. The use of options contracts involves investment strategies and risks different from those associated with ordinary portfolio securities transactions. The prices of options are volatile and are influenced by, among other things, actual and anticipated changes in the value of the underlying instrument, including the anticipated volatility, which are affected by fiscal and monetary policies and by national and international political, changes in the actual or implied volatility or the reference asset, the time remaining until the expiration of the option contract and economic events.

    Distribution Risk. As part of the Fund’s investment objective, the Fund seeks to provide current income. There is no assurance that the Fund will make a distribution in any given period. If the Fund does make distributions, the amounts of such distributions will likely vary greatly from one distribution to the next

    High Portfolio Turnover Risk. The Fund may actively and frequently trade all or a significant portion of the Fund’s holdings. A high portfolio turnover rate increases transaction costs, which may increase the Fund’s expenses.

    Liquidity Risk. Some securities held by the Fund, including options contracts, may be difficult to sell or be illiquid, particularly during times of market turmoil.

    Non-Diversification Risk. Because the Fund is “non-diversified,” it may invest a greater percentage of its assets in the securities of a single issuer or a smaller number of issuers than if it was a diversified fund.

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

    Price Participation Risk. The Fund employs an investment strategy that includes the sale of call option contracts, which limits the degree to which the Fund will participate in increases in value experienced by the underlying reference asset over the Call Period.

    Single Issuer Risk. Issuer-specific attributes may cause an investment in the Fund to be more volatile than a traditional pooled investment which diversifies risk or the market generally. The value of the Fund, which focuses on an individual security (ARKK, TSLA, AAPL, NVDA, AMZN, META, GOOGL, NFLX, COIN, MSFT, DIS, XOM, JPM, AMD, PYPL, SQ, MRNA, AI, MSTR, Bitcoin ETP, GDX®, SNOW, ABNB, BABA, TSM, SMCI, PLTR, MARA, CVNA), may be more volatile than a traditional pooled investment or the market as a whole and may perform differently from the value of a traditional pooled investment or the market as a whole.

    Inflation Risk. Inflation risk is the risk that the value of assets or income from investments will be less in the future as inflation decreases the value of money. As inflation increases, the present value of the Fund’s assets and distributions, if any, may decline.

    Indirect Investment Risk. The Index is not affiliated with the Trust, the Fund, the Adviser, or their respective affiliates and is not involved with this offering in any way.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to GPTY)

    Artificial Intelligence Risk. Issuers engaged in artificial intelligence typically have high research and capital expenditures and, as a result, their profitability can vary widely, if they are profitable at all. The space in which they are engaged is highly competitive and issuers’ products and services may become obsolete very quickly. These companies are heavily dependent on intellectual property rights and may be adversely affected by loss or impairment of those rights. The issuers are also subject to legal, regulatory and political changes that may have a large impact on their profitability. A failure in an issuer’s product or even questions about the safety of the product could be devastating to the issuer, especially if it is the marquee product of the issuer. It can be difficult to accurately capture what qualifies as an artificial intelligence company.

    Technology Sector Risk. The Fund will invest substantially in companies in the information technology sector, and therefore the performance of the Fund could be negatively impacted by events affecting this sector. Market or economic factors impacting technology companies and companies that rely heavily on technological advances could have a significant effect on the value of the Fund’s investments. The value of stocks of information technology companies and companies that rely heavily on technology is particularly vulnerable to rapid changes in technology product cycles, rapid product obsolescence, government regulation and competition, both domestically and internationally, including competition from foreign competitors with lower production costs. Stocks of information technology companies and companies that rely heavily on technology, especially those of smaller, less-seasoned companies, tend to be more volatile than the overall market. Information technology companies are heavily dependent on patent and intellectual property rights, the loss or impairment of which may adversely affect profitability.

    Risk Disclosure (applicable only to MARO)

    Digital Assets Risk: The Fund does not invest directly in Bitcoin or any other digital assets. The Fund does not invest directly in derivatives that track the performance of Bitcoin or any other digital assets. The Fund does not invest in or seek direct exposure to the current “spot” or cash price of Bitcoin. Investors seeking direct exposure to the price of Bitcoin should consider an investment other than the Fund. Digital assets like Bitcoin, designed as mediums of exchange, are still an emerging asset class. They operate independently of any central authority or government backing and are subject to regulatory changes and extreme price volatility.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to BABO and TSMY)

    Currency Risk: Indirect exposure to foreign currencies subjects the Fund to the risk that currencies will decline in value relative to the U.S. dollar. Currency rates in foreign countries may fluctuate significantly over short periods of time for a number of reasons, including changes in interest rates and the imposition of currency controls or other political developments in the U.S. or abroad.

    Depositary Receipts Risk: The securities underlying BABO and TSMY are American Depositary Receipts (“ADRs”). Investment in ADRs may be less liquid than the underlying shares in their primary trading market.

    Foreign Market and Trading Risk: The trading markets for many foreign securities are not as active as U.S. markets and may have less governmental regulation and oversight.

    Foreign Securities Risk: Investments in securities of non-U.S. issuers involve certain risks that may not be present with investments in securities of U.S. issuers, such as risk of loss due to foreign currency fluctuations or to political or economic instability, as well as varying regulatory requirements applicable to investments in non-U.S. issuers. There may be less information publicly available about a non-U.S. issuer than a U.S. issuer. Non-U.S. issuers may also be subject to different regulatory, accounting, auditing, financial reporting and investor protection standards than U.S. issuers.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to GDXY)

    Risk of Investing in Foreign Securities. The Fund is exposed indirectly to the securities of foreign issuers selected by GDX®’s investment adviser, which subjects the Fund to the risks associated with such companies. Investments in the securities of foreign issuers involve risks beyond those associated with investments in U.S. securities.

    Risk of Investing in Gold and Silver Mining Companies. The Fund is exposed indirectly to gold and silver mining companies selected by GDX®’s investment adviser, which subjects the Fund to the risks associated with such companies.

    The Fund invests in options contracts based on the value of the VanEck Gold Miners ETF (GDX®), which subjects the Fund to some of the same risks as if it owned GDX®, as well as the risks associated with Canadian, Australian and Emerging Market Issuers, and Small-and Medium-Capitalization companies.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to YBIT)

    YBIT does not invest directly in Bitcoin or any other digital assets. YBIT does not invest directly in derivatives that track the performance of Bitcoin or any other digital assets. YBIT does not invest in or seek direct exposure to the current “spot” or cash price of Bitcoin. Investors seeking direct exposure to the price of Bitcoin should consider an investment other than YBIT.

    Bitcoin Investment Risk: The Fund’s indirect investment in Bitcoin, through holdings in one or more Underlying ETPs, exposes it to the unique risks of this emerging innovation. Bitcoin’s price is highly volatile, and its market is influenced by the changing Bitcoin network, fluctuating acceptance levels, and unpredictable usage trends.

    Digital Assets Risk: Digital assets like Bitcoin, designed as mediums of exchange, are still an emerging asset class. They operate independently of any central authority or government backing and are subject to regulatory changes and extreme price volatility.  Potentially No 1940 Act Protections. As of the date of this Prospectus, there is only a single eligible Underlying ETP, and it is an investment company subject to the 1940 Act.

    Bitcoin ETP Risk: The Fund invests in options contracts that are based on the value of the Bitcoin ETP. This subjects the Fund to certain of the same risks as if it owned shares of the Bitcoin ETP, even though it does not. Bitcoin ETPs are subject, but not limited, to significant risk and heightened volatility. An investor in a Bitcoin ETP may lose their entire investment. Bitcoin ETPs are not suitable for all investors. In addition, not all Bitcoin ETPs are registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940. Those Bitcoin ETPs that are not registered under such statute are therefore not subject to the same regulations as exchange traded products that are so registered.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to the Short ETFs)

    Investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible.

    Price Appreciation Risk. As part of the Fund’s synthetic covered put strategy, the Fund purchases and sells call and put option contracts that are based on the value of the underlying reference asset. This strategy subjects the Fund to certain of the same risks as if it shorted the underlying reference asset, even though it does not. By virtue of the Fund’s indirect inverse exposure to changes in the value of the underlying reference asset, the Fund is subject to the risk that the value of the underlying reference asset increases. If the value of the underlying reference asset increases, the Fund will likely lose value and, as a result, the Fund may suffer significant losses.

    Put Writing Strategy Risk. The path dependency (i.e., the continued use) of the Fund’s put writing (selling) strategy will impact the extent that the Fund participates in decreases in the value of the underlying reference asset and, in turn, the Fund’s returns, both during the term of the sold put options and over longer periods.

    Purchased OTM Call Options Risk. The Fund’s strategy is subject to potential losses if the underlying reference asset increases in value, which may not be offset by the purchase of out-of-the-money (OTM) call options. The Fund purchases OTM calls to seek to manage (cap) the Fund’s potential losses from the Fund’s short exposure to the underlying reference asset if it appreciates significantly in value. However, the OTM call options will cap the Fund’s losses only to the extent that the value of the underlying reference asset increases to a level that is at or above the strike level of the purchased OTM call options. Any increase in the value of the underlying reference asset to a level that is below the strike level of the purchased OTM call options will result in a corresponding loss for the Fund. For example, if the OTM call options have a strike level that is approximately 100% above the then-current value of the underlying reference asset at the time of the call option purchase, and the value of the underlying reference asset increases by at least 100% during the term of the purchased OTM call options, the Fund will lose all its value. Since the Fund bears the costs of purchasing the OTM calls, such costs will decrease the Fund’s value and/or any income otherwise generated by the Fund’s investment strategy.

    Counterparty Risk. The Fund is subject to counterparty risk by virtue of its investments in options contracts. Transactions in some types of derivatives, including options, are required to be centrally cleared (“cleared derivatives”). In a transaction involving cleared derivatives, the Fund’s counterparty is a clearing house rather than a bank or broker. Since the Fund is not a member of clearing houses and only members of a clearing house (“clearing members”) can participate directly in the clearing house, the Fund will hold cleared derivatives through accounts at clearing members.

    Derivatives Risk. Derivatives are financial instruments that derive value from the underlying reference asset or assets, such as stocks, bonds, or funds (including ETFs), interest rates or indexes. The Fund’s investments in derivatives may pose risks in addition to, and greater than, those associated with directly investing in securities or other ordinary investments, including risk related to the market, imperfect correlation with underlying investments or the Fund’s other portfolio holdings, higher price volatility, lack of availability, counterparty risk, liquidity, valuation and legal restrictions. 

    Options Contracts. The use of options contracts involves investment strategies and risks different from those associated with ordinary portfolio securities transactions. The prices of options are volatile and are influenced by, among other things, actual and anticipated changes in the value of the underlying reference asset, including the anticipated volatility, which are affected by fiscal and monetary policies and by national and international political, changes in the actual or implied volatility or the reference asset, the time remaining until the expiration of the option contract and economic events.

    Distribution Risk. As part of the Fund’s investment objective, the Fund seeks to provide current income. There is no assurance that the Fund will make a distribution in any given period. If the Fund does make distributions, the amounts of such distributions will likely vary greatly from one distribution to the next

    High Portfolio Turnover Risk. The Fund may actively and frequently trade all or a significant portion of the Fund’s holdings.

    Liquidity Risk. Some securities held by the Fund, including options contracts, may be difficult to sell or be illiquid, particularly during times of market turmoil.

    Non-Diversification Risk. Because the Fund is “non-diversified,” it may invest a greater percentage of its assets in the securities of a single issuer or a smaller number of issuers than if it was a diversified fund.

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

    Price Participation Risk. The Fund employs an investment strategy that includes the sale of put option contracts, which limits the degree to which the Fund will participate in decreases in value experienced by the underlying reference asset over the Put Period.

    Single Issuer Risk. Issuer-specific attributes may cause an investment in the Fund to be more volatile than a traditional pooled investment which diversifies risk or the market generally. The value of the Fund, for any Fund that focuses on an individual security (e.g., TSLA, COIN, NVDA), may be more volatile than a traditional pooled investment or the market as a whole and may perform differently from the value of a traditional pooled investment or the market as a whole. 

    Inflation Risk. Inflation risk is the risk that the value of assets or income from investments will be less in the future as inflation decreases the value of money. As inflation increases, the present value of the Fund’s assets and distributions, if any, may decline.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to YQQQ)

    Index Overview. The Nasdaq 100 Index is a benchmark index that includes 100 of the largest non-financial companies listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market, based on market capitalization.

    Index Level Appreciation Risk. As part of the Fund’s synthetic covered put strategy, the Fund purchases and sells call and put option contracts that are based on the Index level. This strategy subjects the Fund to certain of the same risks as if it shorted the Index, even though it does not. By virtue of the Fund’s indirect inverse exposure to changes in the Index level, the Fund is subject to the risk that the Index level increases. If the Index level increases, the Fund will likely lose value and, as a result, the Fund may suffer significant losses. The Fund may also be subject to the following risks: innovation and technological advancement; strong market presence of Index constituent companies; adaptability to global market trends; and resilience and recovery potential.

    Index Level Participation Risk. The Fund employs an investment strategy that includes the sale of put option contracts, which limits the degree to which the Fund will benefit from decreases in the Index level experienced over the Put Period. This means that if the Index level experiences a decrease in value below the strike level of the sold put options during a Put Period, the Fund will likely not experience that increase to the same extent and any Fund gains may significantly differ from the level of the Index losses over the Put Period. Additionally, because the Fund is limited in the degree to which it will participate in decreases in value experienced by the Index level over each Put Period, but has significant negative exposure to any increases in value experienced by the Index level over the Put Period, the NAV of the Fund may decrease over any given period. The Fund’s NAV is dependent on the value of each options portfolio, which is based principally upon the inverse of the performance of the Index level. The Fund’s ability to benefit from the Index level decreases will depend on prevailing market conditions, especially market volatility, at the time the Fund enters into the sold put option contracts and will vary from Put Period to Put Period. The value of the options contracts is affected by changes in the value and dividend rates of component companies that comprise the Index, changes in interest rates, changes in the actual or perceived volatility of the Index and the remaining time to the options’ expiration, as well as trading conditions in the options market. As the Index level changes and time moves towards the expiration of each Put Period, the value of the options contracts, and therefore the Fund’s NAV, will change. However, it is not expected for the Fund’s NAV to directly inversely correlate on a day-to-day basis with the returns of the Index level. The amount of time remaining until the options contract’s expiration date affects the impact that the value of the options contracts has on the Fund’s NAV, which may not be in full effect until the expiration date of the Fund’s options contracts. Therefore, while changes in the Index level will result in changes to the Fund’s NAV, the Fund generally anticipates that the rate of change in the Fund’s NAV will be different than the inverse of the changes experienced by the Index level.

    YieldMax™ ETFs are distributed by Foreside Fund Services, LLC. Foreside is not affiliated with Tidal Financial Group, or YieldMax™ ETFs.

    © 2025 YieldMax™ ETFs

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-Evening Report: Labor promises PBS scripts will cost no more than $25, under latest health pitch for election

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

    The Albanese government will make another pre-election offer in health, promising that if re-elected it will legislate to ensure people pay no more than $25 for a script under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.

    The measure, to be announced by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Thursday, would start on January 1 next year.

    The government says it represents a cut of more than 20% in the maximum cost of PBS medicines, and would save Australians more than $200 million a year. Four out of five medicines would become cheaper.

    The measure, included in next week’s budget, costs the government $689 million over the forward estimates.

    Pensioners and concession card holders will continue to have the cost of their PBS medicines frozen at $7.70 until 2030.

    This is the latest in a range of initiatives the government has taken in health, including promising billions of dollars to expand bulk billing and adding a number of drugs for women’s health to the PBS. The opposition, which matched the government’s bulk billing policy, will be under pressure to do the same with this latest measure.

    Anthony Albanese said: “With cheaper medicines, more free GP visits and a stronger Medicare, we say to Australians, we’ve got your back”.

    Health Minister Mark Butler said the last time Australians paid no more than $25 for a PBS medicine was more than 20 years ago.

    Butler said when Peter Dutton was health minister in the Abbott government “he tried to make medicines cost more”.

    “The contrast in this election is clear: cheaper medicines with a re-elected Albanese government or the frankly terrifying legacy of Peter Dutton, who wants medicines to cost more, not less.”

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

    ref. Labor promises PBS scripts will cost no more than $25, under latest health pitch for election – https://theconversation.com/labor-promises-pbs-scripts-will-cost-no-more-than-25-under-latest-health-pitch-for-election-252510

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Yemens rising tide of malnutrition

    Source: Médecins Sans Frontières –

    Over the past decade, Yemen has endured one of the world’s most devastating humanitarian crises. This has been deepened by the country’s economic collapse, which has pushed 83 per cent of the people into multidimensional poverty. Since 2015, years of violent conflict have destroyed essential infrastructure and left the healthcare system depleted, underfunded, and struggling to function. Of Yemen’s population of 39 million people, an estimated 17.1 million are projected to face food insecurity in 2025. According to multi-sectoral surveys, some 2.2 million children are already acutely malnourished, with 48 per cent of children under five stunted and chronically malnourished.

    The destruction of vital civilian infrastructure, including the latest strikes on the shipping port of Al-Hudaydah and on Sana’a International Airport, and the volatile political climate and ongoing regional tensions have derailed Yemen’s roadmap to peace, and continue to fuel instability. Tensions in the Red Sea remain connected to the very fragile situation in Gaza.

    Data from MSF-supported facilities over the past three years reveals increases in hospital admissions of malnourished children under the age of five (0-59-month-olds) in most MSF-supported facilities, with longer seasonal peaks and overwhelming caseloads during peak months. In 2024 the malnutrition peak season pushed MSF-supported inpatient therapeutic feeding centres (ITFC) beyond limits. With the capacity to expand to 120 beds during peak malnutrition season, Abs Hospital ITFC recorded a staggering 200 per cent bed occupancy rate in September 2024, followed by 176 per cent in October – the highest levels in the last six years. Between January 2022 and December 2024, nearly 35,500 malnourished children were admitted and treated in MSF-supported facilities in total. Nearly 14,000 and over 13,500 children were admitted into MSF-supported facilities for treatment in 2023 and 2024, respectively.

    Due to the high demand for malnutrition care in northern Yemen, MSF expanded its nutritional programmes in 2022 and 2023 to try to respond to this need. With six MSF-supported facilities now offering inpatient nutritional stabilisation since 2023, MSF hospitalised nearly 5,900 more children with complicated malnutrition in 2024 than in 2022.

    Yemen’s rising tide of malnutrition: seasonal trends 2022-2024 pdf — 1.3 MB Download

    MIL OSI NGO

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the EU on the alignment of certain countries with Council Decision concerning restrictive measures in response to the illegal recognition, occupation or annexation by the Russian Federation of certain non-government controlled areas of Ukraine

    Source: Council of the European Union

    Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the EU on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) CFSP) 2025/338 concerning restrictive measures in response to the illegal recognition, occupation or annexation by the Russian Federation of certain non-government controlled areas of Ukraine.

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the EU on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2025/377 of 24 February 2025 concerning restrictive measures in view of activities undermining the stability and political transition of Sudan

    Source: Council of the European Union

    Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the EU on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2025/377 of 24 February 2025 concerning restrictive measures in view of activities undermining the stability and political transition of Sudan.

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Update on the Business Secretary’s meeting with US administration

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Government response

    Update on the Business Secretary’s meeting with US administration

    A meeting between the UK Business and Trade Secretary and US Administration took place in Washington DC on Tuesday 18 March.

    Yesterday (Tuesday 18 March), the UK Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds met with US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and US Special Envoy Mark Burnett in Washington DC.

    The meeting followed last month’s agreement between UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and US President Donald Trump that teams would start working together on an Economic Prosperity Deal, building on our shared strengths and commitment to economic security.

    The UK looks forward to developing this deal over the coming weeks and months.

    Updates to this page

    Published 19 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: [UNDRR-WCCD-AJMAN] Data-Driven Resilient Cities Workshop

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    Time: 09:30 – 16:00 Ajman, UAE
    Date: 6-7 MAY 2025
    Workshop Language: English

    Workshop Objective

    The United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) and the World Council on City Data (WCCD), together with the host city of Ajman, UAE, are holding a two-day Data-Driven Resilient Cities Workshop designed to equip city leaders and stakeholders with tools to leverage ISO-certified data for enhancing governance and planning for risk reduction and informing capital investment for more resilient futures. Participants will explore the UN Making Cities Resilient 2030 (MCR2030) Initiative, the two ISO international Standards – ISO 37123 – Indicators for Resilient Cities and ISO 37125 – Indicators for Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) in Cities and the certification work being led by the WCCD, and the critical role of city-level data in disaster risk reduction, planning and recovery.

    One of the most pressing challenges facing cities is mobilizing sufficient financial resources for disaster resilience. This workshop will bring together local governments and the sustainable finance sector, to explore innovative financing models, address the critical need for risk assessment and comprehensive disaster loss databases to support evidence-based policymaking, to enhance data governance and early warning systems to mitigate disaster risks, and to examine the role of high calibre data in advancing sustainable financing for disaster risk reduction.

    Expected Outcomes:

    • Apply ISO data to urban resilience strategies
    • Integrate data-driven approaches into risk assessment, planning and investment
    • Leverage ESG indicators for sustainable financing and capital investment in more resilient city infrastructure
    • Connect with global experts and peer cities for learning, collaboration and partnership
       

    Target Audience:

    Local government officials and partner organizations working with cities on disaster risk reduction and resilience strategies, data-driven/evidence-based decision making, and are interested in ISO37123 Resilient Cities certification.

    The workshop is by invitation only. Anyone interested in participating can express their interest through this form by Friday, 28 March 2025.

    As seats are limited, only a selected number of applicants may be invited to participate in the training. Confirmation will be communicated via email by Friday, 4 April 2025.

    ** Note: Participants are responsible for self-arranging transportation and covering all relevant expenses associated with attending the workshop. No financial support will be provided by the co-organizers.
     

    Organizers:

    • UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR)
    • World Council on City Data (WCCD)
    • City of Ajman, UAE
    • Standardized Urban Metrics (SUM)
    • MCR2030
       

    MIL OSI United Nations News

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Thales to provide high-performance sonar suite for future Orka-class submarines in the Netherlands

    Source: Thales Group

    Headline: Thales to provide high-performance sonar suite for
    future Orka-class submarines in the Netherlands

    • Under an agreement signed by Thales and Naval Group, Thales will supply the sonar suite for the Orka-class submarines to be deployed by the Royal Netherlands Navy under the RNSC (Replacement Netherlands Submarine Capability) programme.
    • The sonar suite will provide a comprehensive picture of the underwater acoustic environment to support the future submarines’ capacity to thwart increasingly silent threats.
    • Thales is a world leader in the underwater systems market, equipping more than 50 submarines of various types — SSBNs1, SSNs2 and conventionally powered attack submarines — in service today.

    Thales, a long-standing partner of both Naval Group and the Royal Netherlands Navy, will provide a comprehensive suite of high-performance sonar systems for the future class of submarines that will replace the Walrus-class vessels in service today. The contract will provide the submarines with a comprehensive picture of the underwater acoustic environment, helping the Netherlands to guarantee operational superiority.

    The sonar suite features high-performance acoustic sensors, including bow, flank and obstacle-avoidance sonars, an intercept array, a passive towed-array sonar, an underwater voice communication system, an echo-sounder and signal processing racks. This cohesive suite of equipment will provide an unprecedented panoramic view of the underwater environment, making it possible to detect, locate and classify all types of threats at short, medium and long range across a wide range of frequencies.

    Sylvain Perrier, RNSC Programme Director for Naval Group, said: “The highly capable Thales sonar suite was a key component of Naval Group’s bid for this programme, and will make a significant contribution to the acoustic superiority of the Orka-class submarines. We know we can count on Thales to meet the demanding requirements of the COMMIT3and to work hand in hand with Dutch industry on the RNSC programme.”

    This programme is an opportunity for Thales to align with the Dutch government’s policy of support and empowerment of strategic national industries. It will consolidate the company’s engagement with the naval defence ecosystem in the Netherlands, within the framework of the RNSC programme, as illustrated by a recent contract with the Dutch company Optics11, to use its OptiArray technology in the passive towed-array sonar.

    “We are proud that Thales’s advanced sonar suite has been selected to equip the Royal Netherlands Navy’s Orka-class submarines. This partnership will enhance the technological superiority of the Dutch armed forces, and reflects our ongoing commitment to providing innovative, dependable solutions in support of the defence capabilities of allied nations,” said Sébastien Guérémy, Vice President, Underwater Systems, Thales.

    1Ballistic missile submarines

    2Nuclear-powered attack submarines

    3COMMIT (Commando Materieel en IT / Materiel and IT Command) is part of the Dutch Ministry of Defence and responsible for the Orka-class submarines tendering process and project management.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Mexico: The state must investigate the finding of mass graves in Jalisco and Tamaulipas

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Amnesty International expresses deep concern over the discovery of mass graves and cremation ovens in Teuchitlán (Jalisco) and Reynosa (Tamaulipas) on 5 and 11 March, respectively. This discovery, made by search collectives from these states, warrants the immediate opening of an independent and comprehensive investigation by the Mexican state so that the remains found can be identified and returned to the families searching for their disappeared loved ones in a respectful and caring way.

    The Mexican state has a duty to provide the searchers who found the two sites with all the necessary protection measures, given the potential risk to their physical integrity. These measures must be maintained over time so that the searchers are kept safe and can continue their work.

    Amnesty International calls for the prevention of the spread of rumours that stigmatize disappeared persons, who deserve respect and dignity above all.

    “In the face of this tragedy, we urge the Mexican state to establish the facts by providing the necessary resources to do so, and to give appropriate and dignified treatment to those who, after seeing images of the mass graves that have been discovered, have recognized items of clothing worn by disappeared family members,” said Edith Olivares Ferreto, Executive Director at Amnesty International Mexico.

    In the face of this tragedy, we urge the Mexican state to establish the facts by providing the necessary resources to do so, and to give appropriate and dignified treatment to those who, after seeing images of the mass graves that have been discovered, have recognized items of clothing worn by disappeared family members

    -Edith Olivares Ferreto, Executive Director at Amnesty International Mexico.

    “The Mexican state has been the great absentee in the problem of forced disappearances in Mexico. This has given rise to groups of searchers, the vast majority of whom are women, who have helped locate hundreds of bodies of disappeared persons. Their work has generated trust and has led people with disappeared relatives to turn to them for help instead of approaching the authorities. The state cannot ignore its obligation to recognize the searchers as human rights defenders who carry out their work with great dignity, and it must provide them with the guarantees they need to continue their work,” added Edith Olivares Ferreto.

    “In the context of this terrible tragedy, Amnesty International urges the Mexican state to engage in dialogue with the searchers, to listen to their needs and to recognize the experience they have gained through many years of work in the field, in addition to adopting the international standards that guarantee their right to search without fear,” concluded Edith Olivares Ferreto.

    Amnesty International urges the Mexican state to engage in dialogue with the searchers, to listen to their needs and to recognize the experience they have gained through many years of work in the field, in addition to adopting the international standards that guarantee their right to search without fear

    -Edith Olivares Ferreto. Executive Director at Amnesty International Mexico

    The events described take place in an environment of almost total impunity, which creates an idea of permissibility and at the same time revictimizes the victims. It is essential that events of this nature be effectively investigated, including through the hypothesis of enforced disappearances, as it is unlikely that the two mass graves could have operated without the support or acquiescence of the authorities.

    Disappearances in Mexico, an ongoing scourge

    The horrific discovery of the mass graves and crematoriums is further evidence of an ongoing scourge that spares no state in the country.

    Mexico continues to face a serious crisis of disappearances linked to the context of violence and insecurity that has increased in the country in recent decades, as evidenced by the fact that, according to government data, 30 people disappear every day in Mexico.

    Information from the National Registry of Disappeared and Missing Persons shows that between 1 January 1950 and 10 March 2025, the number of disappeared or missing persons reached 122,821. Jalisco is listed as having 15,013 disappeared persons, followed by the state of Mexico with 13,625 disappeared persons and Tamaulipas with 13,307.

    The United Nations Committee on Enforced Disappearances stated in its 2021 report that the number of disappearances in Mexico increased exponentially between 2006 and 2021. It was precisely in 2006 that the administration of President Felipe Calderón took the decision to deploy the armed forces to enforce public security, a process that was institutionalized in September 2024, the last month of the latest six-year presidential term.

    Amnesty International has denounced that the decision to militarize and institutionalize public security in Mexico is in breach of judgments issued by the Inter-American Court of Human Rights.

    Amnesty International has pointed out that the problem of enforced disappearances in Mexico affects men, women, children, Indigenous peoples, migrants, journalists, human rights defenders and the LGBTI community. Disappearances are linked to sexual violence, femicide, recruitment by criminal groups, kidnappings and human trafficking, among other crimes.

    Amnesty International has documented that women searchers in the Americas, and in Mexico in particular, face a high level of risk when searching. From 2011 to date, 24 family members of disappeared persons (14 of them women) have been killed.


    Contextual information:

    Searching Without Fear: International Standards for protecting women searchers in the Americas

    Amnesty International call on behalf of Women Searchers

    MIL OSI NGO

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Letter to accounting officers: 19 March 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Correspondence

    Letter to accounting officers: 19 March 2025

    Letter from David Withey, Chief Executive of the Education and Skills Funding Agency, to accounting officers in academies and colleges.

    Applies to England

    Documents

    Details

    This letter includes information confirming future ways of working after the current functions of the Education and Skills Funding Agency transfer into the Department for Education on 1 April 2025.

    This letter will be of interest to:

    • chief financial officers and executives
    • trustees

    Updates to this page

    Published 19 March 2025

    Sign up for emails or print this page

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Bedfordshire director banned after failing to provide company accounts to liquidator

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Bedfordshire director banned after failing to provide company accounts to liquidator

    The company entered liquidation with liabilities estimated at more than £300,000

    • Jenna Lennon was the director of Hope & Pride Limited when it went into liquidation in September 2023  

    • HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) estimated the company owed more than £300,000 in unpaid corporation tax at the time of liquidation 

    • Lennon failed in her duties as a company director to preserve or maintain adequate accounting records and deliver them to the liquidator 

    A Bedfordshire company director has been disqualified after failing to provide accounting records when her company went into liquidation owing an estimated £319,000 in corporation tax. 

    Jenna Lennon was the sole director of Hope & Pride Limited, which was incorporated in March 2019 and described its business on Companies House as “other information service activities not elsewhere classified”. 

    Hope & Pride entered liquidation in September 2023 but Lennon had failed in her duties as a company director to preserve or maintain adequate accounting records. 

    Indeed, no accounts for Hope & Pride were ever filed at Companies House. 

    The 39-year-old also failed to deliver accounting records to the liquidator as she was required to do. 

    Lennon, whose listed correspondence address for Hope & Pride was Bramingham Business & Conference Centre on Enterprise Way in Luton, has been disqualified as a company director for seven years. 

    An Insolvency Service spokesperson said: 

    Directors are legally required to maintain adequate books and records which show and explain their company’s transactions. This is first and foremost to protect consumers and other businesses who have dealings with the company. 

    Jenna Lennon did not preserve or maintain adequate accounting records for Hope & Pride. This has meant the liquidator has been unable to properly investigate the company’s accounts and accurately establish how much was owed to HMRC and other creditors. 

    This disqualification should serve as a reminder to company directors that they are required by law to keep proper accounts. The Insolvency Service will not hesitate to take action against directors who do not comply with these crucial legal requirements.

    Lennon’s failure to maintain adequate accounting records meant the liquidator was unable to verify the nature of the company’s income and expenditure. 

    This included payments into Hope & Pride’s account of £1,178,364.  

    Additional payments of £151,000, listed on bank accounts as “J Lennon dividends” between July 2019 and March 2022, were similarly not verified. 

    Payments of £1,133,964 out of Hope & Pride’s account were also not explained and the liquidator was unable to establish if this money was used for legitimate trading purposes. 

    The company entered liquidation with total liabilities, which Lennon has not disputed, of £327,923. 

    Due to her failure to provide accounting records, the liquidator could not however establish the company’s true liabilities in relation to unpaid corporation tax – which HMRC estimates at £319,423 – and debts to other creditors.

    The Secretary of State for Business and Trade accepted a disqualification undertaking from Lennon, and her ban started on Wednesday 19 March.  

    The undertaking prevents her from being involved in the promotion, formation or management of a company, without the permission of the court. 

    Further information 

    Updates to this page

    Published 19 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Health Science – Moscow Scientists Demonstrate the Effectiveness of Telemedicine for Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease

    Source:  Center for Diagnostics and Telemedicine
     
    Researchers in Moscow have confirmed the effectiveness of telemedicine in managing inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), demonstrating that remote monitoring and online consultations can significantly improve patient outcomes.
    Center for Diagnostics and Telemedicine.
    A recent study found that patients who received care via a specialized telemedicine platform reported lower anxiety levels, better adherence to treatment, and an overall improved quality of life compared to those receiving traditional face-to-face consultations.
    Simultaneously, study indicate that remote monitoring is comparable to in-person monitoring in its ability to reduce disease activity and improve quality of life.
    In a recent study involving over 60 patients diagnosed with inflammatory bowel diseases, researchers implemented a comparative analysis between two distinct care methods.
    One group received traditional face-to-face medical consultations, while the other group used a specialized health web platform. This platform enabled patients to report their health status and engage in online consultations with gastroenterologists.
    The study aimed to evaluate a range of well-being indicators, including quality of life, levels of anxiety and depression, patient satisfaction with medical care, and adherence to prescribed medication regimens.
    This experiment is a collaborative effort between the Center for Diagnostics and Telemedicine and the I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University.
    The findings revealed a significant reduction in anxiety among the telemedicine group, with levels 30% lower than those in the face-to-face group. Additionally, depression decreased by 29%, and colonic pain sensitivity was reduced by 27%. Notably, both groups experienced a decrease in disease severity.
    According to Yuri Vasiliev, CEO of the Center for Diagnostics and Telemedicine of the Moscow Healthcare Department and Chief Consultant for Radiology in the Moscow Healthcare Department, the results clearly demonstrated the benefits of remote care.  
    The results underscore the effectiveness of telemedicine in managing inflammatory bowel diseases,” Vasilev noted.
    By leveraging digital platforms, patients can access care more conveniently, which may lead to improved psychological outcomes and better adherence to treatment plans.”
    IBD patients require continuous treatment and lifelong follow-up. These conditions, including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, can significantly impact quality of life, making it difficult for patients to visit hospitals regularly. Our research confirms that telemedicine provides a more convenient and accessible alternative, reducing the need for frequent hospital visits while maintaining high standards of care,” said Anton Vladzimirskyy, Dr.Sc. and Deputy Director for Research at the Center for Diagnostics and Telemedicine. 
    The study, titled “Effectiveness of Telemedicine in Inflammatory Bowel Diseases in Russia,” is a randomized controlled trial. It comprises three stages: (1) patient selection and random assignment into two groups with a 1:1 allocation ratio, (2) follow-up care utilizing either telemonitoring or traditional face-to-face appointments, and (3) evaluation and comparison of the efficacy of follow-up in both groups.
    This design allows for a comprehensive assessment of telemedicine’s impact on managing inflammatory bowel diseases in the Russian healthcare context.
    The research began in 2023 and is part of Moscow’s broader efforts to integrate telemedicine and artificial intelligence into healthcare.
    This study adds to a growing body of evidence supporting the role of telemedicine in managing chronic diseases, highlighting its potential to enhance accessibility, improve patient outcomes, and reduce the burden on healthcare systems. 
    The Center for Diagnostics and Telemedicine, established in 1996, is a leading scientific and practical organization within the Social Development Complex of the Moscow Mayor’s Office. The Center focuses on the implementation of AI in medicine, the advancement of radiology, and the development of medical training programs. 

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Moscow schoolchildren have begun writing practice papers before the Unified State Exam

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Moscow schoolchildren have begun to re-write practice papers in the format of the Unified State Exam (USE). More than 71 thousand eleventh-graders will take it this year.

    “Three years ago, a program to prepare for the Unified State Exam was launched in the capital’s schools, which has won the trust of students, parents and teachers. In the first half of the year, eleventh-graders master the program in the main subjects, and in the second, they move on to practical classes, which take up at least 40 percent of the school time. Practice work in the Unified State Exam format is conducted in the subjects that students choose to take. During the year, Moscow schoolchildren can write them twice, now the kids will finally check their knowledge before the exams,” the press service of the capital said.

    Department of Education and Science.

    Eleventh-graders will write practice papers in 11 subjects. They will test their knowledge of both compulsory subjects — Russian language and mathematics (basic or advanced level) — and elective subjects — physics, English, biology, history, chemistry, literature, geography, computer science, and social studies. The practice tests will end on April 19. The schedule was compiled taking into account the subjects chosen by the graduates.

    Training work in the Unified State Exam format has been carried out in Moscow schools since 2022. They are organized by the capital Department of Education and Science. In addition, for graduates who aspire to achieve high exam scores in advanced mathematics, physics, biology, literature and social science, the Center for Pedagogical Excellence offers online courses. They are taught by the best teachers who have trained winners of all-Russian and international Olympiads.

    In preparation for the Unified State Exam, Moscow schoolchildren also use the platform’s capabilities “Moscow Electronic School”. The “Exams” service in the electronic diary contains materials for independent study: video analysis of assignments, tests with automatic checking and interactive applications. In addition, here you can find recommendations on filling out forms, advice on managing your time, emotions and psychological support. Also on the start page of the “MESh” library in the selection “Preparation for the Unified State Exam-2025” schoolchildren have access to video analysis for preparing for the unified city test. Students can save time searching for materials in different sources and prepare for exams more effectively.

    It was previously revealed most popular electives at the Unified State Exam. More than 38 thousand children plan to take the profile level mathematics, more than 25 thousand – social science. 18 thousand graduates chose the Unified State Exam in computer science, 15 thousand – in English. For the first time in several years, physics entered the top five most popular subjects – more than 10 thousand schoolchildren registered for the exam.

    The early exam period will be held from March 21 to April 21, the main period – from May 23 to July 4, and the additional period – from September 4 to 23. See the full schedule andfind out more can be found on the website of the Regional Information Processing Center of Moscow. All questions of interest can be answered by phone: 7 499 653-94-50.

    Moscow graduates show high results in the Unified State Exam. In 2024, Moscow became the only region where a student scored 400 points in four subjects. Another 1,860 people received the maximum score in one subject, 178 in two, and 17 graduates in three subjects.

    Conducting preparatory activities for successfully passing state exams not only helps students achieve high results in tests, but also contributes to the development of their talents, the formation of skills that will be useful in their future profession, and corresponds to the objectives of the project “All the best for children” of the national project “Youth and Children”.

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: DIT of Moscow: you can now find out about applying for a foreign passport on mos.ru

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    A new special project has appeared on the mos.ru portal “How to apply for a foreign passport in Moscow”. Thanks to it, city residents can receive personal instructions that will allow them to apply for a new or old-style document at My Documents offices and district police departments. An interactive map will help them find the least crowded department to make an appointment at a convenient time. The special project also includes answers to popular questions about the procedure for obtaining, replacing and restoring a foreign passport.

    “The special project is especially relevant before the start of the holiday period, when many people apply for or change their passports in advance. It includes an interactive map that will help you find a suitable police department in a specific area. You can submit an application at any department, regardless of your permanent place of registration. The map allows you to choose a convenient institution with free slots for an appointment. Those who are applying for a document for the first time will find detailed information about what types of passports exist and how they differ. A short survey will help you figure out how to apply for a passport in a specific life situation. Based on the results of its completion, a person will receive a personal recommendation,” said the deputy head of the

    Department of Information Technology (DIT) of the city of Moscow Dmitry Ivanov.

    The interactive map is intended for those who plan to apply for a passport at the police. On the map, you can see which district departments you can do this at, how busy they are, what their working hours are, and how far they are from the metro. Departments with low workload are marked in green, with average workload – in orange, and with high workload – in red. This will help save time on submitting documents.

    A survey will help you figure out how to get a passport. In it, city residents will be asked to answer several important questions: whether they have a valid passport, whether they are applying for it for the first time, what type of document they need, and also provide other information. As a result, a personal instruction will be generated with detailed information on how to apply for and receive a passport. Links to all the necessary services of the mos.ru portal will also be available here. For example, the user will be able to go to an appointment at the police department and the government services center “My Documents” to submit an application via the cryptobiocabina. To track the readiness of the document, a direct link to a special service on the website of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Russian Federation is provided.

    If a person is applying for a passport for the first time, the survey will help him choose the type – old or new. In the information prompts, the user will receive detailed information about the validity period of each type of document, the amount of the state fee, the features of registration and other nuances that are important to consider. For example, about the time it takes for the document to be ready after submitting the application.

    In addition, the special project page contains answers to the most common questions about obtaining a passport. Here you can find out why you might need a passport, how to restore it if it is lost or stolen, and whether you need to change the document if you change your last name, first name, or patronymic. More detailed information is contained in the instructions, links to which are collected in a separate block.

    To access the special project page, you need tocatalog of services select the “Documents” section, the “Personal documents” subsection and click on “How to apply for a passport in Moscow”. The interactive map, information materials and survey presented in the special project are available to users without authorization on mos.ru. To register for an application through the portal, you will need a standard or full account.

    The mos.ru portal is the core of the capital’s digital ecosystem. It gives Muscovites access to a variety of online opportunities. Today, over 450 services are available on the portal. Here, users can manage their personal profile, receive electronic services, learn news about important city innovations, and switch to other capital portals and applications. How noted Sergei Sobyanin, last year Muscovites used the services of the mos.ru portal more than 852 million times.

    The creation, development and operation of the e-government infrastructure, including the provision of mass socially significant services, as well as other services in electronic form, corresponds to the objectives of the national project “Data Economy and Digital Transformation of the State” and the regional project of the city of Moscow “Digital Public Administration”.

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: Muscovites signed the first contracts for apartments in a new building under the renovation program in Cherepanovykh Drive

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    More than 90 percent of residents of two houses in the Koptevo district being resettled under the renovation program have decided on equivalent apartments in a new building at 54a Cherepanov Proezd. This was reported by the Minister of the Moscow Government, head of the capital’s Department of City Property Maxim Gaman.

    “Since February 4, about 190 Muscovites from two old buildings – houses 36 on Koptevskaya Street and 52a in Cherepanovykh Drive – began to inspect equivalent apartments in a new building – house 54a in the same drive. As of today, more than 90 percent of them have already decided on the choice of housing for moving, and 26 people have signed the relevant contracts with the department. Those who are just about to start processing the documents can use the super service

    “Moving under the renovation program”. For city residents who have a full account on the mos.ru portal, this digital assistant allows them to choose the date and time online to view the offered housing, as well as the day of signing the contract,” said Maxim Gaman.

    Due to the proximity of the new building to the houses being resettled, the usual schools, kindergartens and other social infrastructure will remain accessible to city residents. In addition, the Likhobory and Koptevo Moscow Central Circle stations are located within a 15-minute walk from the residential complex.

    “The residential complex in Cherepanov Proezd includes 119 apartments with finished, improved finishing. Their total area is almost seven thousand square meters. The entrance hall has rooms for concierges, strollers and bicycles. The first floor is non-residential, and currently houses a resettlement information center. Later, social and household enterprises will be able to open in its place. A recreation area for city residents, as well as children’s and sports grounds, have been equipped in the adjacent territory,” clarified the Minister of the Moscow Government, head of the capital’s Department of Urban Development Policy

    Vladislav Ovchinsky.

    Using the service “Uploading documents within the framework of the renovation program” Muscovites can send inDepartment of City Property personal and title documents that will be needed to prepare a draft agreement. The portal also has an option to make an appointment with a notary: a visit to him is necessary if there are minor children, limited legal capacity orincapacitated people. And to get help with moving, you can leave a request for free call movers.

    As noted in the capital Department of Information Technology, a general guide will help you prepare for your planned move instruction, available in super service “Moving under the renovation program” on the mos.ru portal. With its help, you can get information about the documents required to draw up a contract and use links to useful services. If you configure the parameters correctly, the super service will provide the opportunity to read the instructions suitable for a specific life situation.

    Earlier, the Mayor of Moscow spoke aboutapplication of prefab technologies during the construction of houses under the renovation program.

    The renovation program was approved in August 2017. It concerns about a million Muscovites and provides for the resettlement of 5,176 houses. Sergei Sobyanin ordered to increase the pace of implementation of the renovation program twice as much.

    Moscow is one of the leaders among regions in terms of construction volumes. High rates of housing construction correspond to the goals and initiatives of the national project “Infrastructure for life”.

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: Industrial vacancies to be presented at Quarry Workshop festival

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The Professions of the Future Center invites city residents to the Quarry Workshop, an industrial employment festival, on March 25. There, you can interview potential employers and take the most sought-after positions.

    “Industry is a strategically important sector that creates the basis for sustainable economic development. An area where engineering ideas and scientific achievements are embodied in real products and services, improving the quality of life. As Sergei Sobyanin noted

    in the strategy for the development of the social protection system of Moscow until 2030, the city offers residents to develop their human resources potential and successfully integrate into the largest labor market in the country. The festival “Career Workshop” is a unique opportunity for job seekers to become part of a dynamically developing industrial sector. At the event, participants will get acquainted with current offers and receive valuable advice from career experts. For those who are just starting their professional path in this direction, short educational programs lasting up to 3.5 months are available,” said Andrey Tarasov, Director of the Moscow Employment Service, Head of the Professions of the Future Center.

    The enterprises of the holding company “Roselectronics”, which is part of the state corporation “Rostec”, will present their vacancies: the Scientific Research Institute of Automatic Equipment named after Academician V.S. Semenikhin, the concern “Avtomatika”, the Scientific Research Center for Electronic Computer Engineering, the Central Scientific Research Institute “Cyclone”, the scientific and production association “Angstrem” and others.

    Applicants will be offered employment in the positions of process engineer, designer, assembler of electronic equipment and devices, fitter, turner, milling machine operator, operator of CNC machines, roofer and other blue-collar jobs.

    The event will take place on March 25 from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the address: Shchepkina Street, Building 38, Building 1. Participation is free, but advance registration is required. registration.

    How the Professions of the Future Center Helps Employers Select PersonnelDevelop soft skills and start your own business: what programs does the employment service offer to Muscovites

    The Moscow City Employment Service is the largest state personnel operator that helps residents of the capital find work. Its structure includes employment offices, many of which are located in the My Documents government service centers. The flagship centers are open at the following addresses: Kuusinen Street, Building 2, Building 1, and Shabolovka Street, Building 48. The specialized My Career employment center is located on Sergiya Radonezhskogo Street (Building 1, Building 1).

    In the center “Professions of the Future” on Shchepkina Street (38 Building 1) you can master one of 75 in-demand specialties in various sectors of the economy in a maximum of 3.5 months. Career mentors will help you find a job after completing your studies. The center’s partners include more than three thousand employers. In addition, it implements a comprehensive career guidance program for ninth-grade students.

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: The capital’s pharmaceutical plant has confirmed its status as an industrial complex

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The pharmaceutical plant located in Zelenograd, one of the leading pharmaceutical companies in Russia, has confirmed its status as an industrial complex. The company will continue to receive tax benefits, which will allow it to further significantly reduce its financial burden. This was reported by the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Transport and Industry Maxim Liksutov.

    “Sergey Sobyanin defined the development of the pharmaceutical complex as one of the city’s key priorities. A number of projects are being implemented in the capital to strengthen the country’s medicinal sovereignty and there is a pool of comprehensive tools to support enterprises. Among them is the assignment of the status of an industrial complex, which provides for a special tax regime for companies. Thus, one of the capital’s pharmaceutical plants has confirmed the right to a special status, which will allow it to continue to receive tax benefits. Today, the enterprise produces a wide range of drugs and vaccines in accordance with international quality standards. Since the beginning of the year, the plant has produced more than 890 thousand packages of drugs, including drugs for the treatment of renal failure, hemostatic agents for local use, immunomodulators, bronchodilators and local anesthetics for the Russian and foreign markets,” said Maxim Liksutov.

    For the company “Binnofarm Group” the property tax has been halved, and the rental rate has been reduced fivefold – to 0.3 percent of the cadastral value of the site. The plant uses the saved funds for its own development.

    “Today, the site is undergoing final preparations for the launch of production of drugs based on monoclonal antibodies against rheumatoid arthritis and for the treatment of osteoporosis. The first batches of drugs will enter civilian circulation by the end of 2025 – beginning of 2026,” said the Minister of the Moscow Government, head of the capital’s Department of Investment and Industrial Policy

    Anatoly Garbuzov.

    Previously, assistance from the Moscow Fund for the Support of Industry and Entrepreneurship was attracted to implement this project in the form of compensation for part of the interest on an investment loan in the amount of 1.5 billion rubles.

    According to the plant’s corporate director for production activities, Anatoly Yaglenko, production will be launched in about a month. This global project required large-scale investments and the construction of new capacities at the plant from scratch. The support that the enterprise receives from the city helps reduce the tax burden.

    Medicines based on monoclonal antibodies are modern medicines and can significantly improve the quality of life of patients, and their production makes a significant contribution to the fight against complex diseases.

    Previously The Mayor of Moscow said on increasing the volume of drug production in January by 12.3 percent with the support of the city.

    Production of drugs for the treatment of oncological and autoimmune diseases to be established in Zelenograd

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: Master classes, lectures, professional testing: the forum of capital colleges has begun in Moscow

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    A large-scale college forum has begun in the capital. On March 19–21, schoolchildren and their parents will be able to get acquainted with the capital’s colleges at Gostiny Dvor, take part in master classes on more than 140 in-demand professions, undergo professional testing, and meet with famous speakers and artists. This was reported by Anastasia Rakova, Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Social Development.

    “In recent years, the labor market has seen a huge demand for specialists with secondary vocational education (SVE). In turn, colleges are increasingly becoming a choice for further career paths for schoolchildren. In order to maintain the interest of children and give them the opportunity to get acquainted with the wide opportunities that SVE now offers, today we opened a three-day forum of capital colleges in Gostiny Dvor. 48 educational organizations will take part in it. Here, every schoolchild will be able to practically assess their predisposition to a particular direction, literally “touch” the specialty and feel which professions may be interesting to them,” noted Anastasia Rakova.

    She added that a separate program has been prepared for parents, for whom this period is also difficult. They will meet with experts in the field of psychology and adolescent personality development. Parents will be able to talk to college representatives and ask all the questions they have about admission and the children’s further adaptation.

    In the morning and afternoon hours, the forum will be available only for organized visits by Moscow schoolchildren, and from 17:30 – for everyone.

    On March 19, doctor, journalist and TV presenter Sergei Malozemov will tell how to stick to a healthy diet and stay active while studying. At a lecture by communications trainer and digital etiquette expert Keti Sapovich, you can learn about the basics of eco-friendly communication, and at a speech by figure skater and TV presenter Evgenia Medvedeva, you can learn how to properly use the opportunities of a metropolis in your profession.

    As part of the evening program, psychologist Anetta Orlova will share advice on how to cope with stress during exams, and Konstantin Sidorkov, director of work with artists at a major IT company, will talk about how secondary vocational education helps people get jobs in successful Russian companies.

    On March 20, three-time Olympic champion Maria Kiseleva will share the secrets of achieving goals, and blogger Alexander Ivanov will talk about the demand for scientific specialties. In the evening, there will be an awards ceremony for the winners of the first Moscow college film festival “Profession in the frame”, as well as a lecture by the creative director of the design company Alisa Bokha.

    On March 21, Doctor of Biological Sciences Vyacheslav Dubynin will talk about the effective work of the brain under stress, and Seda Kasparov’s voice coach will talk about the secrets of successful communication. Somnologist Roman Buzunov will give the children advice on how to properly rest under intense study conditions.

    Each day, the lecture hall will close with a concert program. In addition, more than 120 master classes will be held within the forum. Using virtual reality technologies, schoolchildren will try themselves in the role of racers and drone pilots, master the skills of 3D modeling and additive technologies, and get acquainted with advanced welding and robotics techniques. They will be able to learn the basics of programming and auto mechanics, as well as reveal their potential in the field of beauty, floristry and medicine.

    Detailed information about the in-demand professions and specialties taught in the capital’s colleges is available in the section“Colleges” on the portal“School. Moscow”, in the telegram channel“Colleges of Moscow” And community of the same name on the social network VKontakte.

    Most Moscow college students start working while still studyingSobyanin approved priorities for the development of the Moscow education system

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